TMJ: What Is It and How Is It Treated?
The temporomandibular joint (TMJ), located in front of each
ear, has been described as one of the most complex joints in the entire body. The joint apparatus itself consists of the
upper jaw, lower jaw, and a disc that lies between, all of which is encapsulated
and surrounded by muscles, tendons, and ligaments. When in proper allignment, the joints and its
surrounding structures work harmoniously—enabling the jaw to slide and rotate smoothly,
and thereby allowing us to talk, chew, yawn, and swallow. However, when not well aligned or
asynchronous, a number of problems varying in severity may arise—all of which
can be referred to as temporomandibular disorders (TMDs).
Signs and symptoms of TMD range from jaw soreness, headaches,
radiating pain (behind the eyes, in the face, shoulder, and/or back), earaches
or ringing in the ears, clicking or popping of the jaw (with or without pain),
locking of the jaw, limited mouth movement, clenching or grinding of teeth,
dizziness, teeth sensitivity, a change in the how the upper and lower teeth fit
together, to even numbness or a tingly sensation in the fingers. Please note that none of these signs alone
are indicative of TMD, which is why it is imperative that a comprehensive
evaluation of your teeth, muscles, and joints are evaluted by your dentist.
Although the exact cause of TMD is still somewhat unclear,
most dentists will agree the symptoms often arise from problems within the
joint itself or excessive strain on the muscles that control chewing,
swallowing, and speech. It is evident however
that injury to the jaw, TMJ, or head and neck muscles can cause TMD. Other possible causes include excessive
pressure on the TMJ from long-term clenching or grinding of teeth, dislocation
of the disc of the joint apparatus, presence of arthritis in the TMJ, physical and mental stresses, which can cause
tightening of facial and jaw muscles and clenching of teeth, or bite
discrepancies which can lead muscle disharmony.
Treatment options of TMD vary, many of which do not include
surgery. These can include simply resting
of the joints, practicing relaxation techniques and stress management, behavior
modification, physical therapy, orthopedic or bite appliance therapy, bite
correction (via orthodontics, restorative, equilibration, or appliance
therapy), posture training, diet modificiation, ice and hot packs, medications
and/or pain relievers, or even surgery.
