What is TMJ?
The lower jaw is connected to the temporal bone by two temporomandibular joints. These joints, in conjunction with their related muscles, ligaments, and tendons, work together to support different oral functions such as chewing, speaking, and yawning. A soft disc within the TMJ serves as a shock absorber, aiding in smooth movements in various directions between the lower jaw and the temporal bone. Due to its complexity, the temporomandibular joint is often considered one of the most challenging joints to manage when problems arise.
Different Types and Symptoms of TMJ Disorders
TMJ disorders can be classified into any of the three categories mentioned below:
TMJ disorders fall into one of the three categories mentioned below:
- Myofascial Pain: Characterized by discomfort in the jaw joint area, myofascial pain results from heightened muscle tension and spasms caused by various factors.
- Internal Derangement: Encompassing conditions where the disc is displaced, the jaw is dislocated, or there is trauma to the condyles of the jaw.
- Arthritis: Denoting a condition characterized by degenerative joint disease.
The risk of developing a TMJ problem is higher if there is a history of teeth grinding or bruxism, a previous jaw injury, or specific types of arthritis such as rheumatoid arthritis or osteoarthritis. Additionally, symptoms of a TMJ disorder can vary significantly from person to person, including 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, others may continue to experience symptoms despite extensive therapy.
Diagnosis and Treatment
In assessing the presence of a TMJ disorder, the dentist will perform a thorough clinical evaluation of joint symptoms and function. If deemed necessary, additional diagnostic tests, including specialized radiographic imaging, will be prescribed. Treatment options for a TMJ disorder may include the utilization of oral appliances such as night guards or stabilization splints to alleviate strain on the joints. Other therapeutic approaches may involve steroid injections, occlusal adjustments, and orthodontic or prosthodontic interventions to enhance the alignment of the teeth. In more severe cases, surgery may be recommended.
Self-care methods can be beneficial in alleviating certain symptoms associated with a TMJ disorder. Patients are generally advised to consume soft foods, avoid excessive jaw movements such as wide yawning and gum chewing, practice stress reduction and relaxation techniques, and apply ice packs or moist heat as instructed. If recommended, patients should adhere to gentle stretching exercises provided by their dentist or therapist. Over-the-counter non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs and pain medications may offer temporary relief. If these prove ineffective, the dentist or physician may prescribe stronger pain or anti-inflammatory medications, muscle relaxants, or anti-depressants.