| The Temporomandibular joint (TMJ) is the area directly in front of the ear on either side of the head where the upper jaw and lower jaw meet. Within the TMJ, there are moving parts that allow the upper jaw to close on the lower jaw> the point is a typical sliding “ball and socket” that has a disc sandwiched between it. The TMJ is used to move the jaw especially yawning, chewing tough food and talking and is one of the most frequently used joints on the body.
The Temporomandibular joints are complex and are composed of muscles, tendons and bones and each component contributes to the smooth operation of the TMJ. When the muscles are relaxed and balanced and both jaw joints open and close comfortably, we are able to talk, chew or yawn without pain.
Disorder in this group of complexes jaw joint is also referred to as, facial pain dysfunction and Costen”syndrom. Your muscles and joints work together and a problem with either one can lead to stiffness, headaches, ear pain,bite problems, clicking sounds, or locked jaws.
Behaviors or conditions that can lead to TMJ disorder are teeth grinding and clenching which increases the wear on the cartage lining of the TMJ. Habitual chewing or fingernail biting, dental problems and misalignment of the teeth. Trauma to the jaws like previous fractures in the jaw or facial bones can also lead to TMJ disorder. Stress leads to unreleased nervous energy and tasks like holding the telephone between the head and shoulders may also contribute.
Common TMJ symptoms are spasm in the jaw muscles, headaches, facial pain, ear pain, dizziness and ringing in your ears.
Patients with TMJ are evaluated and diagnosed by a complete dental and medical evaluation and treatments for TMJ is heat or ice therapy which assists in reducing the muscle tension and spasm. This should not be done immediately after an injury though. A soft diet and anti-inflammatory medications, Jaw rest can be beneficial to keep the teeth apart.
Physical therapy by passively opening and closing the jaw, massage, and electrical stimulation. Stress management and Occiusai therapy by appliance of a custom-made acrylic appliance which will fits over the teeth for use during the night and sometimes also during the day to eliminate teeth grinding or clenching.
Correction of bite abnormalities such as orthodontics may be required to correct an abnormal bite and if none of the above brings relieve to this problem surgery is required. |