What is TMJ?
The temporomandibular joints connect the lower jaw to the temporal bone and play a crucial role in oral functions like chewing, speaking, and yawning. These joints, along with their supporting muscles, ligaments, and tendons, work together to facilitate smooth movements. The TMJ contains a soft disc that acts as a shock absorber, allowing for flexibility in all directions. Due to 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:
- Myofascial pain is characterized by discomfort in the jaw joint area caused by heightened muscle tension and spasms resulting from different factors.
- Internal derangement refers to the condition where the disc is displaced, the jaw is dislocated, or there is trauma to the condyles of the jaw.
- Arthritis - a condition characterized by degenerative joint disease.
The likelihood of developing a TMJ issue is increased if you have a history of teeth grinding, bruxism, jaw injury, or certain types of arthritis like rheumatoid arthritis or osteoarthritis. Symptoms of a TMJ disorder can vary widely and may include earaches, tinnitus, headaches, neck and back 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 experience relief from a TMJ disorder quickly, others may continue to have symptoms despite extensive treatment.
Diagnosis and Treatment
When diagnosing a TMJ disorder, the dentist will thoroughly evaluate joint symptoms and function. Additional tests, including special radiographic imaging, may be ordered if needed. Treatment options may include oral appliances like night guards or stabilization splints to reduce strain on the joints. Other therapies could involve steroid injections, occlusal adjustments, and orthodontic or prosthodontic treatment to improve teeth alignment. In severe cases, surgery may be necessary.
Self-care methods can help alleviate TMJ disorder symptoms. Patients are advised to eat soft foods, avoid excessive jaw movements, practice stress reduction techniques, and use ice packs or moist heat as directed. Gentle stretching exercises recommended by the dentist or therapist should be followed. Over-the-counter pain medications may provide temporary relief, but stronger medications or muscle relaxants may be prescribed if needed.