What is TMJ Disorder?

TMJ disorder, or temporomandibular joint disorder, is a relatively common but often misunderstood condition that affects millions of people worldwide. It is a broad term that encompasses various disorders of the jaw muscles, temporomandibular joints, and the nerves associated with chronic facial pain.

What is TMJ?

The temporomandibular joint (TMJ) is the joint that connects the lower jaw (mandible) to the temporal bone of the skull, which is located in front of the ear on each side of your head. These joints are flexible and allow the jaw to move smoothly up and down and side to side, enabling us to talk, chew, and yawn.

TMJ disorders occur when there are problems with the muscles, joints, or jaw. The condition can be temporary or last many years and is most common among women aged 20-40. It's worth noting that 'TMJ' refers to the joint itself, while 'TMJ disorder' refers to the issues associated with that joint.

Causes of TMJ Disorder

There isn't a single cause for TMJ disorders. The pain could be due to a combination of factors, such as genetics, arthritis, or jaw injury. Some people who have jaw pain also tend to clench or grind their teeth, although many people habitually clench or grind their teeth and never develop TMJ disorders.

In some cases, the pain and discomfort associated with TMJ disorders may be due to a displaced disc, the cushion-like disc between the ball and socket of the joint. Other times, TMJ disorders could be due to the wear and tear of the moving parts of the joint or due to the breakdown of the joint's cartilage due to arthritis.

Common Symptoms of TMJ Disorder

The symptoms of TMJ disorders can vary greatly, depending on the severity and cause of your condition. The most common symptom is pain in the chewing muscles and/or jaw joint. Other symptoms may include aching pain in and around your ear, difficulty chewing or discomfort while chewing, aching facial pain, and locking of the joint, making it difficult to open or close your mouth.

TMJ disorders can also cause a clicking sound or grating sensation when you open your mouth or chew. However, if there's no pain or limitation of movement associated with your jaw clicking, you probably don't need treatment for a TMJ disorder.

How is TMJ Disorder Diagnosed?

If you suspect you have a TMJ disorder, your doctor might refer you to a dentist or an ear, nose, and throat (ENT) specialist for diagnosis. Diagnosing TMJ disorders can be complex and may require several tests. Your doctor will examine your jaw to see if there is pain or tenderness, listen for clicking, popping, or grating sounds during jaw movement, and also measure how far you can open your jaw. They may also take X-rays, a CT scan, or a MRI to provide detailed images of the bones and soft tissues of your jaw.

Treatment Options for TMJ Disorder

Treatment of TMJ disorders depends on the severity and underlying cause of your symptoms. Conservative treatments, such as self-care practices, diet modification, and pain management, are often effective. Your doctor might recommend avoiding extreme jaw movements, like wide yawning, loud singing, and chewing gum. They may also suggest stress-reducing activities and techniques, such as meditation or biofeedback.

If conservative treatments aren't effective, more invasive procedures may be necessary, including dental treatments, oral splints or mouth guards, medications, or in rare cases, surgery. It's important to discuss with your doctor the benefits and potential risks of these treatments.

When to Seek Professional Help for TMJ Disorder

If you're experiencing persistent pain or tenderness in your jaw, or if you can't open or close your jaw completely, it's time to see your healthcare provider. It's also essential to seek medical attention if you're having trouble eating or if your sleep is disturbed due to jaw pain. Early intervention can help prevent the progression of the disorder and improve your quality of life.

Conclusion

Living with TMJ disorder can be challenging, but with the right information and treatment plan, you can manage your symptoms and lead a comfortable life. It's important to remember that everyone's experience with TMJ disorders is unique, so what works for one person may not work for another. Remain patient and persistent, and don't hesitate to seek professional help if your symptoms worsen or persist.

For more information on TMJ disorder, contact Above & Beyond Dental at our facility in Bedford, Texas, for an in-person consultation. We provide the highest level of dental care for any dental issue. Call us at 817-571-1667 to schedule an appointment today.