Temporomandibular Joint Disorders: Common Symptoms & Treatment Options

Are you experiencing pain or discomfort when opening or closing your mouth, suffering from chronic headaches or neck pain? You might be dealing with a temporomandibular joint disorder (TMJD).

The National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research (NIDCR) estimates that over 10 million people in the United States suffer from TMJ disorders, making them one of the most common sources of chronic facial pain and jaw dysfunction.

Understanding Your Jaw: The Temporomandibular Joint

The temporomandibular joint (TMJ) is a complex joint that connects the lower jaw to the skull. It's responsible for all types of oral function, including chewing, speaking, and yawning. The TMJ contains a soft disc that allows smooth movement between the jawbone and the temporal bone in the skull.

Due to its complex nature, the TMJ is often considered one of the most difficult joints in the body to treat when problems arise.

Types & Symptoms of TMJ Disorders

TMJ disorders can be classified into three main categories:

• Myofascial pain- Characterized by pain in the area around the jaw joint, often caused by increased muscle tension and spasm.
• Internal derangement- Involves displacement of the disc, jaw dislocation, or trauma to the condyles of the jaw.
• Degenerative joint disease - Arthritis.

Risk factors for developing a TMJ disorder include long-term teeth grinding or bruxism, jaw injuries, and certain types of arthritis such as rheumatoid arthritis and osteoarthritis. Symptoms can vary greatly from person to person and may include earaches, tinnitus (ringing in the ears), headaches, back and neck pain, vertigo, muscle spasms, joint tenderness, jaw pain, popping or grating sounds with jaw movement, jaw locking, and limited jaw movement. For some individuals, a TMJ disorder can be resolved relatively quickly, while for others it may persist despite extensive treatment.

Restoring Comfort & Oral Health: Treatment Options

While the discomfort and dysfunction associated with a TMJ disorder can feel overwhelming, there is hope. Our dental office offers the diagnostic tools and care needed to help individuals suffering from TMJ problems get back on the road to better oral health and function. We provide personalized treatment plans based on each patient's specific needs, which may include:

• Occlusal equilibration- Adjusting the bite to ensure even distribution of pressure across all teeth.
• Night guards and other oral appliances- Designed to prevent teeth grinding and clenching during sleep.
• Restorative or orthodontic care- Addressing underlying issues such as misaligned teeth or an uneven bite.

In all cases, the primary objective of treatment is to alleviate pain and restore normal jaw function. If you're experiencing symptoms of a TMJ disorder, don't hesitate to reach out to us for more information or to schedule an appointment.