Temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders
Definition: The temporomandibular joint (TMJ) is a hinge joint on each side of your head that connects your lower jaw (mandible) to your skull. It allows you to move your jaw up and down, side to side, and forward and backward for activities like talking, chewing, and yawning. TMJ disorders refer to a group of conditions affecting the jaw joint and the muscles that control jaw movement.
Causes: Various factors can contribute to TMJ disorders, including:
-Muscle overuse or strain: Clenching or grinding teeth (bruxism), chewing gum excessively, or holding the jaw in an uncomfortable position for extended periods can strain the jaw muscles and lead to TMJ pain.
Disc problems: The TMJ has a disc that acts like a cushion between the bones. Injuries or displacement of this disc can cause pain and clicking sounds in the jaw.
Arthritis: Degenerative joint diseases like osteoarthritis can affect the TMJ, causing pain and stiffness.
Autoimmune diseases: Rheumatoid arthritis and other autoimmune diseases can inflame the TMJ joint.
Signs and Symptoms:
Pain in the jaw joint or surrounding muscles
Difficulty or pain when opening or closing the mouth
Clicking, popping, or grating sounds in the jaw
Jaw locking or limited jaw movement
Facial pain or headaches
Earaches (not caused by an ear infection)
Treatment: Most TMJ disorders can be managed conservatively, with the goal to reduce pain and improve jaw function. Treatment options may include:
Self-care techniques: Relaxation techniques like applying moist heat or ice packs, gentle jaw stretching, and avoiding chewy or hard foods can help manage symptoms.
Mouth guards: Custom-made mouth guards worn at night can help prevent teeth grinding and reduce muscle strain.
Pain medication: Over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen or acetaminophen can help manage pain.
Physical therapy: Physical therapy exercises can improve flexibility and strength in the jaw muscles.
Medication for muscle relaxants or anti-inflammatory drugs: In some cases, stronger medications may be prescribed to manage inflammation or muscle spasms.
Surgery: In rare severe cases that don’t respond to conservative treatment, surgery might be an option to repair or replace damaged structures within the TMJ joint.
Disclaimer: Please consult a doctor or dentist for diagnosis and treatment options for TMJ disorders.