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What is TMJ Disorder?
The TMJ is the joint connecting the temporal bones of your skull (located just below your temple, in front of your ear) to your jaw. You use this hinge to do everything from moving your jaw to eating, talking – even breathing.
Temporomandibular joint disorders (TMD) occur when your jaw and facial muscles become strained. You begin to feel pain in the area, and if the disorder progresses to a severe state, the joint may become immobile.
Types of TMJ Disorder
Actually, there are three main categories of TMJ disorders:
Joint Degenerative Disorders
Most commonly known as osteoarthritis, this joint degenerative disorder happens when cartilage holding the round ends of the two bones in your jaw together breaks or wears away.
Your bones can move smoothly over one another because cartilage absorbs shocks as you move. You may not be able to move your jaw as the cartilage deteriorates and causes pain, swelling, and other symptoms.
Muscle Disorders
Muscle disorders, also known as myofascial pain, cause aches and discomfort in every muscle that moves your jaw. In addition, the muscles in your neck, shoulders, and jaw could hurt.
Joint Derangement Disorders
The jaw opens and closes smoothly and easily thanks to a small, soft disc that is situated between the condyle and the temporal bone. This disc is crucial because it cushions shocks to the jaw joint that occur during motion.
When an individual has a joint derangement disorder, the inner workings of the jaw are disrupted or unbalanced due to a dislocated disc or damaged bone.
This displaced disc causes internal derangement of the temporomandibular joint. Currently, there is no surgical solution to this problem.
Symptoms of TMJ Disorder
Every type of TMJ Disorder will cause pain in your jaw and face. When you open your mouth to eat or talk, the area around your ears may hurt.
Other symptoms may include:
- Facial bruising or swelling
- Problems opening, closing or clenching your jaw
- Headaches, dizziness or pain in your temples
- Grinding, clicking or popping sounds when you open your jaw
- Additional pain in your neck and/or shoulders
When You Should See a Dentist for TMJ Treatment
If at-home remedies like stress reduction, chewing gum, gently massaging your neck and jaw muscles, and trying over-the-counter nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDS) haven't worked, you should schedule a dental appointment.
Your dentist will review your dental history, perform a thorough examination of your bite and jaw, and take x-rays to assess before providing an official diagnosis of TMJ Disorder. The treatment he or she recommends may include:
- TMJ therapy
- Physical Therapy
- Oral Surgery
- Dental splints
- Prescription medications
Your dentist can help you manage your TMJ Disorder with a combination of home remedies and attentive dental care.