The temporomandibular joint (TMJ) is the joint located on each side of your head in front of your ears, where your lower jawbone meets your skull. This important joint enables you to eat, speak and yawn, and in order to function properly, each intricate part of the joint must work together properly. Any problem that prevents the TMJ's complex system from functioning properly can result in TMJ disorder, with symptoms including loss of jaw movement and intense jaw pain.
The severity of TMJ disorder will vary from person to person. Some people may only experience temporary discomfort while others may have TMJ problems for many years. Women are diagnosed with TMJ problems more frequently than men.
Warning Signs of TMJ
A variety of symptoms accompany TMJ disorder. Many patients complain of headaches, ear pain and limited ability to open the mouth. Symptoms will vary from patient to patient depending on the cause of their discomfort.
Other Common Symptoms include:
* Dull, aching pain in the jaw joint
* Neck, shoulder and facial pain
* Locking of the jaw
* Pain or ringing in the ears
* Hearing loss
* Dizziness and vision problems
* Uncomfortable or uneven bite
* Swelling of the face and mouth on the affected side
* Unexplained morning headaches
* Limited jaw mobility, especially when chewing or yawning
Finding Relief for TMJ Symptoms
Treatment for a TMJ problem will depend on the cause. And while the exact cause of TMJ is unclear, arthritis, trauma, a dislocated joint or disk displacement are contributing factors known to trigger TMJ disorder. With simple steps, your TMJ symptoms may go away on their own in a matter of days. Avoid opening your mouth wide, eat a diet of soft foods and apply a warm compress on the area of pain. When pain persists or worsens, you will want to see your dentist or physician for professional care.
Dental problems can be the cause of TMJ as well, including teeth grinding and malocclusion. If this is the case, a dentist that specializes in TMJ disorders can help manage and control the pain. If your jaw pain is caused by teeth grinding, your dentist may recommend a TMJ mouthguard which slips over the upper and lower teeth to prevent grinding that leads to TMJ symptoms. The soft plastic protectors make it difficult to clench the jaws, a leading cause of TMJ pain. If a misaligned bite is the cause of TMJ, orthodontic treatment and other dental work to correct the malocclusion can be performed to eliminate jaw pain. When symptoms don't respond to other treatments, surgery to repair the damaged joint tissue may be necessary.
If your symptoms match up with TMJ symptoms, visit your dentist for an evaluation. Left untreated, pain will persist and symptoms may get worse. Your dentist will help you determine the cause of your TMJ and recommend the best course of treatment for your individual needs.
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