How are TMJ disorders linked to dizziness and vertigo. What are the common symptoms of TMJ disorders. Which treatments are available for TMJ-related dizziness. When should you seek medical attention for TMJ symptoms.

Understanding TMJ Disorders and Their Prevalence

Temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders affect millions of people worldwide, causing a range of uncomfortable symptoms, including dizziness. The National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research (NIDCR) reports that approximately 12 million individuals in the United States alone suffer from TMJ disorders (TMDs or TMJDs). These conditions encompass a group of ailments that impact the jaw joint and the muscles responsible for jaw movement.

TMDs can be either temporary or chronic, with various factors contributing to their development, such as:

• Trauma
• Arthritis
• Genetic predisposition
• Structural abnormalities

While TMDs are more prevalent in women between 35 and 44 years old, they can affect individuals of any age and gender.

The Connection Between TMJ Disorders and Dizziness

Many people are surprised to learn that TMJ disorders can cause dizziness and vertigo. A 2018 report highlighted that participants in various studies frequently reported tinnitus, hearing impairment, and vertigo alongside TMDs. But how exactly are these conditions related?

Research from 2014 suggests that the complex anatomy of the bones, muscles, and joints in the TMJ area may be responsible for this connection. Two primary theories explain this phenomenon:

1. Poor positioning of the mandibular condyle (one of the joints) could trigger earache, tinnitus, and vertigo.
2. Sensitivity or hyperactivity in the chewing muscles may lead to contractions that cause dysfunction in the Eustachian tubes, resulting in an imbalance and hearing loss.

It’s important to note that vertigo and dizziness, while related, are distinct sensations. Vertigo refers to a feeling of spinning or swaying, while dizziness is characterized by lightheadedness or imbalance. Both can lead to nausea or vomiting.

Common Symptoms of TMJ Disorders

TMJ disorders can manifest in various ways, with symptoms often varying depending on individual factors and any underlying conditions. Some of the most common symptoms include:

• Pain or tenderness in the jaw joint, neck, shoulders, or around the ear
• Difficulty chewing or speaking
• Clicking or popping sounds when opening or closing the mouth
• Headaches
• Jaw discomfort, stiffness, or soreness
• Ringing in the ears (tinnitus)
• Hearing loss
• Facial or neck pain
• Misalignment of upper and lower teeth when biting

The Prevalence of Dizziness in TMJ Disorders

How common is dizziness among individuals with TMJ disorders? The 2014 research mentioned earlier provides some insight into this question. The study found that TMDs could increase the chances of experiencing vertigo by 2.3 times. In practical terms, this means:

• Nearly 60% of participants with TMD also experienced vertigo
• 65% of participants with vertigo also had TMD
• 50% of participants who reported facial pain also experienced vertigo

These findings suggest that dizziness is indeed quite common among individuals with TMJ disorders, highlighting the importance of addressing both conditions simultaneously.

Home Remedies for TMJ-Related Dizziness

For those experiencing dizziness related to TMJ disorders, several home remedies can provide relief. These strategies target both TMD symptoms and vertigo:

TMD-specific remedies:

• Consuming softer foods (e.g., soups, steamed vegetables, fish)
• Applying heat or cold to the face while gently massaging and stretching jaw muscles
• Reducing habits like nail biting, gum chewing, and jaw clenching
• Taking over-the-counter pain medications (e.g., ibuprofen, aspirin, NSAIDs)

Vertigo-specific remedies:

• Sleeping with the head elevated on multiple pillows
• Sitting on the bed before getting up
• Avoiding neck extension or bending down
• Moving the head slowly during daily activities and exercise

Medical Treatments for TMJ Disorders and Associated Dizziness

When home remedies prove insufficient, medical interventions may be necessary to address TMJ disorders and related dizziness. Here are some of the most common medical treatments:

Medications:

• Pain medications (e.g., NSAIDs)
• Antianxiety medications
• Antidepressants
• Antiseizure medications
• Prochlorperazine and antihistamines (for vertigo)

Non-pharmacological treatments:

• Acupuncture
• Transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (TENS)
• Vestibular rehabilitation training (VRT) for balance improvement

Surgical interventions:

• Arthroscopy to reposition joint disks
• Surgery to modify teeth or facial anatomy in severe cases

Additionally, some treatments show promise but require further research to confirm their effectiveness:

• Oral appliances (e.g., mouth guards, occlusal splints, stabilization appliances)
• Dental procedures (e.g., teeth grinding, crowns, teeth repositioning)
• Botulinum toxin (Botox) injections
• Specific injections into the TMJ area to trigger the body’s immune response for joint repair

When to Seek Medical Attention for TMJ Symptoms

While many cases of TMJ disorders can be managed with home remedies and over-the-counter treatments, certain situations warrant professional medical attention. You should consult a healthcare provider if:

• Your symptoms persist or worsen despite home treatments
• You experience severe pain or difficulty opening your mouth
• Your jaw becomes stuck in an open or closed position
• You develop new or unusual symptoms, such as fever or swelling
• Your dizziness or vertigo becomes severe or interferes with daily activities
• You notice changes in your hearing or experience persistent tinnitus

Early intervention can help prevent the progression of TMJ disorders and associated symptoms, including dizziness.

The Impact of TMJ Disorders on Quality of Life

TMJ disorders and their associated symptoms, including dizziness, can significantly impact an individual’s quality of life. The chronic pain, discomfort, and balance issues can affect various aspects of daily living, such as:

• Eating and nutrition
• Sleep quality
• Work performance
• Social interactions
• Physical activity and exercise
• Mental health and emotional well-being

Understanding the far-reaching effects of TMJ disorders emphasizes the importance of seeking appropriate treatment and developing effective coping strategies. By addressing both the physical symptoms and their psychological impact, individuals can work towards improving their overall quality of life.

Preventive Measures and Lifestyle Changes for TMJ Health

While not all cases of TMJ disorders can be prevented, certain lifestyle modifications and preventive measures can help reduce the risk of developing or exacerbating symptoms:

• Practice stress management techniques, such as meditation or deep breathing exercises
• Maintain good posture, especially when working at a desk or using electronic devices
• Avoid excessive jaw movements, such as wide yawning or aggressive gum chewing
• Use proper form when exercising, particularly during activities that involve the head and neck
• Wear a mouthguard during contact sports or if you grind your teeth at night
• Maintain a balanced diet rich in anti-inflammatory foods
• Stay hydrated to support overall joint health
• Seek early treatment for dental issues to prevent misalignment or jaw strain

By incorporating these preventive measures into your daily routine, you may be able to minimize the risk of developing TMJ disorders and associated symptoms like dizziness.

The Role of Interdisciplinary Care in Managing TMJ Disorders

Given the complex nature of TMJ disorders and their potential to affect multiple body systems, an interdisciplinary approach to care can be highly beneficial. This may involve collaboration between various healthcare professionals, including:

• Dentists specializing in TMJ disorders
• Oral and maxillofacial surgeons
• Neurologists
• Otolaryngologists (ear, nose, and throat specialists)
• Physical therapists
• Chiropractors
• Pain management specialists
• Mental health professionals

By working together, these specialists can develop comprehensive treatment plans that address all aspects of TMJ disorders, including associated symptoms like dizziness. This holistic approach can lead to more effective management and improved patient outcomes.

Emerging Research and Future Directions in TMJ Disorder Treatment

As our understanding of TMJ disorders continues to evolve, researchers are exploring new avenues for diagnosis, treatment, and prevention. Some promising areas of investigation include:

• Advanced imaging techniques for more accurate diagnosis
• Genetic markers that may indicate susceptibility to TMJ disorders
• Novel pharmaceutical interventions targeting specific pain pathways
• Regenerative medicine approaches, such as stem cell therapy
• Customized 3D-printed oral appliances for improved treatment efficacy
• Virtual reality applications for pain management and rehabilitation

These emerging research areas hold the potential to revolutionize the way we approach TMJ disorders and their associated symptoms, including dizziness. As new discoveries are made, treatment options are likely to become more personalized and effective, offering hope to those who struggle with these challenging conditions.

In conclusion, the relationship between TMJ disorders and dizziness is complex and multifaceted. By understanding the causes, symptoms, and available treatments, individuals can take proactive steps towards managing their condition and improving their overall quality of life. As research continues to advance, we can look forward to even more effective strategies for addressing TMJ-related dizziness and other associated symptoms.

Dizziness from TMJ Disorders: Causes and Treatments

Temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders are common and affect many people. You may experience many symptoms, including dizziness.

According to the National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research (NIDCR), approximately 12 million people in the United States have TMJ disorders (TMDs or also referred to as TMJDs).

TMDs are a group of conditions that affect the jaw joint and the muscles that control jaw movement. These disorders can be temporary or become long-term or chronic.

Trauma, arthritis, genetics, and other factors can cause TMDs. Common symptoms you may experience include:

• pain in the jaw area
• difficulty chewing or speaking
• clicking or popping in the jaw joint when opening and closing the mouth
• headaches

Other symptoms that are not uncommon include vertigo or dizziness, hearing loss, and ringing in the ear.

This article explores how TMDs are related to dizziness and vertigo. It examines what causes these conditions, their frequency, and other symptoms. It also discusses potential treatments and when to contact a doctor.

A 2018 report states that participants in various studies often reported tinnitus, hearing impairment, and vertigo with TMDs.

According to research from 2014, scientists do not fully know why TMJ disorders can lead to vertigo. However, the anatomy of the bones, muscles, and joints in the TMJ area could be the reason.

The researchers said one possibility is the poor positioning of one of the joints, the mandibular condyle. This could trigger earache, tinnitus, and vertigo.

Another possibility is sensitivity or hyperactivity in the chewing muscles, which can lead to contractions that cause dysfunction in the tubes that connect the ear to the nose. This could lead to an imbalance and hearing loss.

Vertigo is a sensation of spinning or swaying, while dizziness is a feeling of lightheadedness or imbalance. They can both lead to nausea or vomiting.

TMDs can vary, especially if you have any underlying conditions or have a bone or muscle structure that increases your symptoms. They are also more common in women between 35 and 44 years old than men or women of other age groups.

Other symptoms of TMDs include:

• difficulty chewing
• pain or tenderness in the jaw joint, neck and shoulders, or in or around the ear when you chew, speak, or open your mouth wide
• jaw discomfort, stiffness, or soreness
• headaches
• ringing in the ears (tinnitus)
• hearing loss
• clicking sounds when you open your mouth wide or close it
• feeling that your upper and lower teeth don’t fit together correctly when you bite down
• facial or neck pain

According to the 2014 research mentioned above, scientists observed that TMDs could increase the chances of having vertigo by 2.3 times. In practical terms, nearly 60% of participants with TMD also had vertigo, while 65% of participants with vertigo also had TMD.

Moreover, 50% of the participants who experienced facial pain also reported vertigo.

This suggests that dizziness is quite common with TMDs.

Since there are not many studies on dizziness caused by TMDs, you can look at treating both simultaneously. Home remedies and medical treatments are available.

Home remedies

Home remedies for TMDs include:

• Eating softer foods, such as soups, steamed vegetables, and fish. You may want to avoid hard foods like beef jerky, deep-fried food, and hard snacks.
• Applying heat or cold to your face while gently massaging and stretching your jaw muscles.
• Reducing nail biting, gum chewing, and jaw clenching.
• Taking over-the-counter medications, such as ibuprofen, aspirin, and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs).

Remedies for vertigo include:

• sleeping with your head raised on multiple pillows
• sitting on the bed before getting up
• avoiding extending your neck or bending down
• moving your head slowly during daily and physical activities

Medical treatment

Medical treatments and procedures for TMDs include:

• pain medications, such as NSAIDs
• antianxiety medications
• antidepressants
• antiseizure medications
• acupuncture and transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (TENS)
• arthroscopy, or surgery to reposition the joint’s disk
• surgery to change your teeth or facial anatomy in cases of severe symptoms

Other treatments that may work but need more research to be conclusive include:

• oral placements, such as mouth guards, occlusal splints, and stabilization appliances
• dental procedures, such as grinding the teeth, using crowns, or changing your teeth positioning
• botulinum toxin (botox)
• specific injections into the TMJ area that trigger the body’s immune response to repair the joint

Medications that can help with vertigo include:

• vestibular rehabilitation training (VRT), which refers to exercises for people with dizziness to help with balancing
• drugs like prochlorperazine and antihistamines

Note:

If you take any of the above medications, speak with your doctor about how to take them and for how long. They can be addictive or lead to severe side effects.

Was this helpful?

If you’re experiencing dizziness or vertigo due to a TMD, talk with a doctor. Dizziness can be a symptom of many different conditions, so it’s crucial to have an accurate diagnosis and treatment plan.

A doctor may recommend lifestyle changes like avoiding certain foods or activities that could be causing your symptoms. They may also suggest physical therapy or other treatments. In some cases, surgery may be necessary to correct the underlying problem.

If you cannot completely open or close your jaw or have persistent pain, talk with a doctor or dentist. They can help you understand why it’s happening and how to treat it.

TMDs have a vast range of symptoms, including dizziness or vertigo. There are numerous ways to treat both conditions, including home remedies, medications, and surgery.

If you have any persistent pain or frequent episodes of dizziness, it is essential that you speak with a doctor or dentist. They can provide a proper diagnosis and determine if you have a TMD or an underlying condition.

Dizziness from TMJ Disorders: Causes and Treatments

Temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders are common and affect many people. You may experience many symptoms, including dizziness.

According to the National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research (NIDCR), approximately 12 million people in the United States have TMJ disorders (TMDs or also referred to as TMJDs).

TMDs are a group of conditions that affect the jaw joint and the muscles that control jaw movement. These disorders can be temporary or become long-term or chronic.

Trauma, arthritis, genetics, and other factors can cause TMDs. Common symptoms you may experience include:

• pain in the jaw area
• difficulty chewing or speaking
• clicking or popping in the jaw joint when opening and closing the mouth
• headaches

Other symptoms that are not uncommon include vertigo or dizziness, hearing loss, and ringing in the ear.

This article explores how TMDs are related to dizziness and vertigo. It examines what causes these conditions, their frequency, and other symptoms. It also discusses potential treatments and when to contact a doctor.

A 2018 report states that participants in various studies often reported tinnitus, hearing impairment, and vertigo with TMDs.

According to research from 2014, scientists do not fully know why TMJ disorders can lead to vertigo. However, the anatomy of the bones, muscles, and joints in the TMJ area could be the reason.

The researchers said one possibility is the poor positioning of one of the joints, the mandibular condyle. This could trigger earache, tinnitus, and vertigo.

Another possibility is sensitivity or hyperactivity in the chewing muscles, which can lead to contractions that cause dysfunction in the tubes that connect the ear to the nose. This could lead to an imbalance and hearing loss.

Vertigo is a sensation of spinning or swaying, while dizziness is a feeling of lightheadedness or imbalance. They can both lead to nausea or vomiting.

TMDs can vary, especially if you have any underlying conditions or have a bone or muscle structure that increases your symptoms. They are also more common in women between 35 and 44 years old than men or women of other age groups.

Other symptoms of TMDs include:

• difficulty chewing
• pain or tenderness in the jaw joint, neck and shoulders, or in or around the ear when you chew, speak, or open your mouth wide
• jaw discomfort, stiffness, or soreness
• headaches
• ringing in the ears (tinnitus)
• hearing loss
• clicking sounds when you open your mouth wide or close it
• feeling that your upper and lower teeth don’t fit together correctly when you bite down
• facial or neck pain

According to the 2014 research mentioned above, scientists observed that TMDs could increase the chances of having vertigo by 2.3 times. In practical terms, nearly 60% of participants with TMD also had vertigo, while 65% of participants with vertigo also had TMD.

Moreover, 50% of the participants who experienced facial pain also reported vertigo.

This suggests that dizziness is quite common with TMDs.

Since there are not many studies on dizziness caused by TMDs, you can look at treating both simultaneously. Home remedies and medical treatments are available.

Home remedies

Home remedies for TMDs include:

• Eating softer foods, such as soups, steamed vegetables, and fish. You may want to avoid hard foods like beef jerky, deep-fried food, and hard snacks.
• Applying heat or cold to your face while gently massaging and stretching your jaw muscles.
• Reducing nail biting, gum chewing, and jaw clenching.
• Taking over-the-counter medications, such as ibuprofen, aspirin, and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs).

Remedies for vertigo include:

• sleeping with your head raised on multiple pillows
• sitting on the bed before getting up
• avoiding extending your neck or bending down
• moving your head slowly during daily and physical activities

Medical treatment

Medical treatments and procedures for TMDs include:

• pain medications, such as NSAIDs
• antianxiety medications
• antidepressants
• antiseizure medications
• acupuncture and transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (TENS)
• arthroscopy, or surgery to reposition the joint’s disk
• surgery to change your teeth or facial anatomy in cases of severe symptoms

Other treatments that may work but need more research to be conclusive include:

• oral placements, such as mouth guards, occlusal splints, and stabilization appliances
• dental procedures, such as grinding the teeth, using crowns, or changing your teeth positioning
• botulinum toxin (botox)
• specific injections into the TMJ area that trigger the body’s immune response to repair the joint

Medications that can help with vertigo include:

• vestibular rehabilitation training (VRT), which refers to exercises for people with dizziness to help with balancing
• drugs like prochlorperazine and antihistamines

Note:

If you take any of the above medications, speak with your doctor about how to take them and for how long. They can be addictive or lead to severe side effects.

Was this helpful?

If you’re experiencing dizziness or vertigo due to a TMD, talk with a doctor. Dizziness can be a symptom of many different conditions, so it’s crucial to have an accurate diagnosis and treatment plan.

A doctor may recommend lifestyle changes like avoiding certain foods or activities that could be causing your symptoms. They may also suggest physical therapy or other treatments. In some cases, surgery may be necessary to correct the underlying problem.

If you cannot completely open or close your jaw or have persistent pain, talk with a doctor or dentist. They can help you understand why it’s happening and how to treat it.

TMDs have a vast range of symptoms, including dizziness or vertigo. There are numerous ways to treat both conditions, including home remedies, medications, and surgery.

If you have any persistent pain or frequent episodes of dizziness, it is essential that you speak with a doctor or dentist. They can provide a proper diagnosis and determine if you have a TMD or an underlying condition.

Treatment of TMJ dysfunction – diagnostics, methods and prices in Moscow

TMJ dysfunction – disruption of the temporomandibular joint, partial or complete loss of its functions. Accompanied by pain, restriction of movement of the jaws when opening the mouth, chewing, talking. It is difficult to treat due to the variety of symptoms and causes. In our Center, this complex problem is successfully solved by candidates of medical sciences , doctors with specialized training in gnatology and practical experience of 11 years.

TMJ dysfunction syndrome – what is it?

The temporomandibular joint (TMJ) connects the movable lower jaw and the fixed temporal bone of the upper jaw. There are two such joints – located on both sides of the skull in front of the ears. Each consists of a temporal fossa above and an articular head (mandible) below. Between them is the articular disc, which softens the friction of the articular surfaces during the movement of the lower jaw.

The main assistants of the joints are chewing muscles, which help to move the lower jaw relative to the upper one, as well as to keep it in the correct anatomical position, while easing the load on the joint.

Joints are quite mobile, work synchronously, provide:

• jaw movements, typical for conversation;
• movement of the jaw during chewing;
• maximum mouth opening, e.g. when yawning.

Normally, all elements of the system provide an easy, smooth, silent movement. But if there are changes in the articular surfaces and (or) the muscles that are attached to the joints, the whole system fails. There is a violation of the mobility of the joint or its dysfunction (one or two at once).

Causes of dysfunction of the temporomandibular joint

The main causes of TMJ dysfunction can be divided into several categories:

Dental

Lead to dysfunction of the joint due to physiologically incorrect closure of the jaws (occlusion) and their interaction in general:

• Injuries of the lower jaw
• Malocclusion
• Inadequate prosthetics
• Partial or total absence of teeth

Myogenic

Lead to increased stress on the joint and development of TMJ dysfunction in the jaw muscles (muscle dysfunction):

• Prolonged mechanical tension of facial muscles
• Hypertonicity of masticatory muscles due to bruxism
• Excessive muscle tension due to entrapment of the facial nerve

Diseases of the joint

Progressive pathologies affect the TMJ and impair its functions:

• Osteoarthritis
• Rheumatoid arthritis
• Inflammatory processes of the articular surface of infectious etiology

Anatomical factors

Increase the likelihood of TMJ dysfunction:

• Congenital anomalies of the structure of the lower jaw, pathologically low alveolar processes
• Anatomical discrepancy between the temporal fossa and the articular head, incorrect position of the disc at their articulation

Characteristic symptoms and signs

TMJ destruction is characterized by:

Pain tends to increase during speech, eating or yawning, when the range of motion of the lower jaw increases.

Symptoms characteristic of the manifestation of the destructive process in the joint may be pronounced or blurred. This is typical for a protracted chronic process. There are also likely periods of remission, followed by exacerbations – the symptoms can appear sharply against the background of emotional experiences.

The general condition also deteriorates, :

Less typical symptoms should also be treated with caution :

Treatment of TMJ dysfunction must be immediate !

Due to the variety of symptoms and lack of understanding which doctor to contact, a person comes to a competent specialist with an advanced chronic form that accompanies him for many years and reduces the quality of life with debilitating manifestations. And without timely therapeutic measures, the onset of complete or partial ankylosis (immobilization of the jaw), which is difficult to treat, is possible.

Levin Dmitry Valerievich

Chief Physician and Founder of the Doctor Levin Medical Center

Who treats TMJ pain dysfunction and how?

The complexity of the situation is the lack of competent specialists in this field. Disappointed patients often turn to our Center after a long walk through various clinics from one doctor to another, who already have a huge number of pictures and tests on their hands, but have not received the long-awaited relief.

Few people know that degenerative processes in the joint of the lower jaw are treated by a gnathologist. Orthopedic dentists or orthodontists who have undergone special gnathological training can also be treated.

For help! Gnathology is a branch of medicine that studies the relationship of all elements of the dental system (jaw bones, ligaments, muscles, joints) and the treatment of pathologies that violate this physiologically correct interaction.

After diagnosing, the doctor will determine the causes of failures, suggest the most optimal ways to ensure a balanced operation of the entire system. Having outlined the methods of correction, he will also control the course of treatment.

Also, to ensure maximum effectiveness of therapeutic measures, consultation or direct participation of doctors may be required:

• Traumatologist – in case of displacement of the temporomandibular joint due to injury
• Neurologist – in case of infringement of the facial nerve or involvement in the process of nerve endings of nearby tissues and organs.
• Psychologist – if the destruction in the joint was formed due to prolonged tension of the muscles of the face due to psychological trauma or stress.

Diagnosis of the joint of the lower jaw

Diagnostics of the pathology of the joint, volumetric and multi-stage. Includes a set of examinations:

Primary history taking and examination

• Finding out the characteristics of the patient’s life – the specifics of work, the presence of chronic diseases, psycho-emotional background
• Questioning the patient about the probable cause of pathological changes in the jaw – trauma, inflammatory processes in the oral cavity, past dental history, the presence of neurological pathologies
• Visual inspection of the external surface of the projection of the joint and oral cavity, if possible
• Palpation examination of the joints, which helps to detect muscle tension, swelling and displacement
• Listening to sounds when opening the mouth, which may be clicks or pops
• Determining the amplitude of jaw mobility, identifying the range of possible movements
• External bite test
• The doctor also draws up a photo protocol – takes a photo of the face and intraoral photographs.

The gnatologist also performs a general posture assessment, as TMJ disorders are directly related to skeletal changes in general.

Functional and computer diagnostics

Impressions are taken, diagnostic models are made to analyze the relationship between the upper and lower dentitions when they are closed, to establish contacts of teeth on opposite rows.

The most informative diagnostic methods for suspected TMJ dysfunction are:

• 3D computed tomography (CT) . Allows you to explore the bone structures of the joint and jaws.
• Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) . It is carried out to study the soft elements of the joint (cartilage, capsule, bone marrow).

The results of a comprehensive study help to determine the severity of the pathology, draw up a plan and sequence of treatment, and the need to involve narrow specialists.

Treatment of diseases of the temporomandibular joint

Methods of therapeutic measures are selected depending on the degree of the pathological process and the causes of its occurrence. But the basic principle and sequence of treatment of TMJ dysfunction is as follows:

Elimination of soreness and removal of muscle hypertonicity

Comprehensive treatment using the above methods and means, in most cases, gives a positive effect and long-term remission.

Recommended for the duration of treatment:

1. Complete exclusion of solid food, which will make it possible to maintain conditional rest for the joint
2. Maximum restriction of mobility – you can not yawn widely, open your mouth
3. Alternating warm and cold compresses
4. Performing myogymnastics, a set of exercises is selected by a doctor

Occlusion correction

Necessary for jaw occlusion disorders that have affected TMJ dysfunction. Correction is performed using braces or aligners, which are installed only after the condition improves, the pain syndrome is eliminated and muscle tone is reduced.

After a course of orthodontic treatment, the jaws take a physiologically correct position, their exact closing and contact of the teeth of the opposite row is achieved.

Restoration of missing teeth

In the absence of teeth, their restoration is mandatory. These can be bridges or implants. The second option is preferable because it solves the problem once and for all. The implant completely replaces the lost tooth – both the root and the crown part. This provides a uniform load on the jawbone, prevents its atrophy. In addition, unlike bridge prosthetics, it is not necessary to grind adjacent teeth to fix the structure.

Frequently Asked Questions from Patients

How can I distinguish symptoms of TMJ dysfunction from other diseases?

Symptoms of pathological processes in the joint are similar to manifestations of other processes:

• myocardial infarction is characterized by pain radiating to the neck, lower jaw and shoulders;
• otitis – accompanied by severe pain in the ears, hearing loss;
• violation of cerebral circulation – proceeds with the presence of dizziness, flickering flies and nausea;
• cervical and thoracic osteochondrosis – similar in localization of pain;
• infringement of the facial nerve – also due to unilateral facial muscle tension and swelling;
• complicated diseases of the gums and teeth – accompanied by inflammation and immobility of the lower jaw.

Therefore, in order to avoid making an incorrect diagnosis, our doctor carefully studies the patient’s life and illness history, conducts a visual and palpation examination, and prescribes the necessary functional and instrumental studies.

Levin Dmitry Valerievich
Oral and maxillofacial surgeon, chief physician of the Center

What if the treatment does not work?

Conservative treatment does not help in cases where changes in the joint are serious. In this case, one of the types of surgical operations is performed:

• puncture of the cavity and arthroscopy of the joint;
• a small incision to eliminate pathological tissue, adjust the location of the cartilaginous disc and condyle;
• intra-articular intervention in the presence of a tumor process, bone fragments and destruction of bone tissue.

The type of surgical intervention is determined by a council of doctors after all the necessary studies confirming its expediency.

Dmitry Levin
Oral and maxillofacial surgeon, chief physician of the Center

Levin Dmitry Valerievich

Author of the article. Oral and maxillofacial surgeon, chief physician of the Center

Published: 06/09/2022

Updated: 06/06/2023

TMJ diseases

jaw with the base of the skull. Its main function is to provide movement of the lower jaw.

The TMJ is one of the most important joints in our body, without it we would not be able to talk or eat. That is why it is important to identify TMJ diseases at an early stage.

TMJ diseases are common – according to various sources, they affect from 70% to 92% of the population, people of different sex and age. The most common TMJ disease is muscular-articular dysfunction of the TMJ.

Main signs of TMJ dysfunction:

• Pain syndrome . Depending on the stage of the disease, it is possible to feel pain in the chewing muscles when eating, talking for a long time, and in difficult cases even constant muscle pain.
• Cracking, clicking in the TMJ area. It is important to understand that normal movement in the joint should be silent, and any clicks and crackles in the joint area indicate that the cartilage tissue of the joint is injured.
• Unsymmetrical, uneven opening of the mouth. Normally, when opening the mouth, the lower jaw should move evenly down, without lateral displacements. If there is a displacement of the lower jaw to the side when opening the mouth or its S-shaped movement, you should consult a doctor.
• Mouth restriction . Normally, the mouth should open 40-45 mm, this distance is approximately equal to the width of three fingers. With TMJ dysfunction, mouth opening is limited to 20 mm or less at maximum mouth opening.
• Other symptoms. Also, with TMJ dysfunction, there may be jamming of the jaw, grinding of teeth (bruxism), dizziness, headache.

At the beginning of the disease, symptoms of dysfunction may be mild, but without treatment the disease will progress.

Danger! With long-term dysfunction, osteoarthritis of the TMJ may develop.

Diagnosis of diseases of the TMJ:

For the correct diagnosis of diseases of the joint, you must consult a doctor. The doctor will conduct the necessary diagnostics: palpation of the masticatory muscles and TMJ, auscultation of the joint, assess the restriction of mouth opening, determine the consistency and symmetry of the work of the right and left TMJ and masticatory muscles. If necessary, he will appoint additional examinations and consultations of related specialists.