What is TMJ?
The lower jaw is connected to the temporal bone by two temporomandibular joints. These joints, along with their associated muscles, ligaments, and tendons, work together to enable various oral functions such as chewing, speaking, and yawning. Inside the TMJ, there is a soft disc that acts as a shock absorber, allowing for smooth movements in all directions between the lower jaw and the temporal bone. Because of its complexity, the TMJ is often considered one of the most difficult joints to treat when problems occur.
Different Types and Symptoms of TMJ Disorders
TMJ disorders can be classified into any of the three categories mentioned below:
TMJ disorders can be categorized into three groups:
1. Myofascial pain: This type of TMJ disorder is characterized by discomfort in the jaw joint area. It is caused by increased muscle tension and spasms, which can be triggered by various factors.
2. Internal derangement: This category includes conditions where the jaw disc is displaced, the jaw is dislocated, or there is trauma to the jaw condyles.
3. Arthritis: Arthritis refers to degenerative joint disease, which can also affect the TMJ.
Certain factors increase the risk of developing a TMJ problem. These include a history of teeth grinding or bruxism, previous jaw injuries, and specific types of arthritis such as rheumatoid arthritis or osteoarthritis.
Symptoms of TMJ disorders can vary greatly from person to person. They may include earaches, ringing in the ears (tinnitus), headaches, back and neck pain, dizziness, muscle spasms, joint tenderness, jaw pain, popping or grating sounds when moving the jaw, jaw locking, and limited jaw movement.
While some individuals may find relief from a TMJ disorder in a short period of time, others may continue to experience symptoms despite undergoing extensive therapy.
Diagnosis and Treatment
The dentist will conduct a thorough assessment of joint symptoms and function to evaluate the presence of a TMJ disorder. Additional diagnostic tests, such as specialized radiographic imaging, may be ordered if necessary. Treatment options for a TMJ disorder may include the use of oral appliances like night guards or stabilization splints to reduce strain on the joints. Other approaches may involve steroid injections, occlusal adjustments, and orthodontic or prosthodontic interventions to improve teeth alignment. In severe cases, surgery may be recommended.
Self-care methods can help alleviate some TMJ disorder symptoms. Patients are advised to eat soft foods, avoid excessive jaw movements like wide yawning and gum chewing, practice stress reduction and relaxation techniques, and apply ice packs or moist heat as instructed. Gentle stretching exercises provided by the dentist or therapist may be recommended. Over-the-counter non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs and pain medications can provide temporary relief. If these are ineffective, stronger pain or anti-inflammatory medications, muscle relaxants, or anti-depressants may be prescribed by the dentist or physician.