What are the common symptoms of TMJ ear pain. How is TMJ ear pain related to jaw disorders. What are the most effective treatments for relieving TMJ ear pain. How can you differentiate TMJ ear pain from other types of ear discomfort.

Understanding the Temporomandibular Joint (TMJ) and Its Connection to Ear Pain

The temporomandibular joint (TMJ) is a complex structure that connects the jawbone to the skull. It acts as a sliding hinge, enabling essential functions like speaking, chewing, and swallowing. Located near the ear, the TMJ’s proximity to the auditory canal explains why TMJ disorders often manifest as ear pain.

TMJ disorders occur when there’s a problem with the joint or surrounding muscles. These issues can stem from various factors, including:

• Jaw injuries
• Arthritis
• Teeth grinding (bruxism)
• Excessive gum chewing
• Misaligned bite

Types of TMJ Disorders and Their Impact on Ear Health

TMJ disorders are generally classified into three main categories:

1. Myofascial pain: This is the most common type, characterized by deep, aching pain in the muscles surrounding the joint.
2. Internal derangement of the joint: Often associated with a dislocated joint or jaw trauma.
3. Degenerative joint disease: Conditions like arthritis can affect the TMJ, leading to pain and discomfort.

Each of these disorders can contribute to ear pain due to the TMJ’s close proximity to the ear canal. Understanding the type of TMJ disorder you’re dealing with is crucial for effective treatment.

Recognizing TMJ Ear Pain: Symptoms and Characteristics

TMJ ear pain can manifest in various ways, making it sometimes challenging to differentiate from other types of ear discomfort. Common characteristics of TMJ-related ear pain include:

• Dull, ongoing irritation or sharp, searing pain
• Discomfort that worsens when moving the jaw
• Soreness along the side of the head, neck, temple, cheek, face, lower jaw, and teeth
• A clicking or popping sound when opening the mouth
• Difficulty opening the mouth or locking of the joint
• Ringing sound in the ear (tinnitus)

Can TMJ ear pain be mistaken for an ear infection? While both conditions can cause ear discomfort, TMJ pain is typically accompanied by jaw-related symptoms and doesn’t usually involve fever or discharge, which are common in ear infections.

The Science Behind TMJ Ear Pain: Why It Occurs

TMJ ear pain occurs due to the intricate relationship between the jaw joint and the ear. The TMJ’s close proximity to the auditory canal means that inflammation or dysfunction in the joint can directly affect the ear area. But what exactly causes this pain?

• Referred pain: The trigeminal nerve, which serves both the jaw and ear regions, can transmit pain signals from the TMJ to the ear.
• Muscle tension: Tightness in the muscles surrounding the TMJ can radiate pain to the ear area.
• Eustachian tube dysfunction: TMJ issues can affect the function of the Eustachian tube, leading to ear fullness and pain.

Does TMJ ear pain always indicate a serious condition? Not necessarily. While chronic TMJ pain should be evaluated by a healthcare professional, occasional discomfort may be managed with self-care techniques.

Diagnosing TMJ Ear Pain: What to Expect from Your Healthcare Provider

Proper diagnosis of TMJ ear pain is crucial for effective treatment. When you visit a healthcare provider for TMJ-related ear pain, you can expect:

1. A thorough medical history review
2. Physical examination of the jaw and surrounding areas
3. Assessment of jaw movement and listening for any clicking or popping sounds
4. Possible imaging tests like X-rays, CT scans, or MRIs to visualize the joint
5. Referral to specialists if needed (e.g., dentist, orthodontist, or ENT doctor)

How can you prepare for your doctor’s appointment? Keep a pain diary noting when and how the pain occurs, its intensity, and any accompanying symptoms. This information can help your healthcare provider make an accurate diagnosis.

Effective Treatment Options for TMJ Ear Pain

Treatment for TMJ ear pain varies depending on the underlying cause and severity of symptoms. Here are some common approaches:

Self-Care Remedies

• Eating soft foods to reduce jaw strain
• Practicing relaxation techniques to alleviate muscle tension
• Performing TMJ stretches and exercises
• Avoiding habits like gum chewing or jaw clenching
• Applying moist heat to the affected area

Medical Interventions

• Anti-inflammatory medications to reduce pain and swelling
• Muscle relaxants to ease tension in the jaw muscles
• Mouthguards or night guards to prevent teeth grinding
• Orthodontic appliances to correct bite misalignment

In severe cases, more invasive treatments like corticosteroid injections or surgery may be considered. However, these are typically reserved for cases that don’t respond to conservative measures.

How long does it take to see improvement with TMJ ear pain treatment? While some people may experience relief within a few days of starting treatment, others may require several weeks or months of consistent management to see significant improvement.

Lifestyle Modifications to Manage and Prevent TMJ Ear Pain

In addition to medical treatments, certain lifestyle changes can help manage TMJ ear pain and prevent future episodes:

• Stress management: Practice techniques like meditation, yoga, or deep breathing exercises to reduce overall tension.
• Posture improvement: Maintain good posture to reduce strain on the jaw and neck muscles.
• Diet modifications: Opt for softer foods and avoid chewy or hard foods that can strain the jaw.
• Sleep habits: Use a supportive pillow and avoid sleeping on your stomach to maintain proper jaw alignment.
• Ergonomic adjustments: Ensure your work setup promotes good posture and reduces neck and jaw strain.

Can dietary supplements help with TMJ ear pain? While some people find relief with supplements like glucosamine or omega-3 fatty acids, it’s important to consult with a healthcare provider before starting any new supplement regimen.

When to Seek Professional Help for TMJ Ear Pain

While mild TMJ ear pain can often be managed at home, certain situations warrant professional medical attention. Consider seeking help if:

• Pain persists or worsens despite self-care measures
• You experience difficulty eating or speaking
• Your jaw locks or you can’t fully open or close your mouth
• You develop new or worsening symptoms
• The pain significantly impacts your daily life or sleep

Is TMJ ear pain ever a sign of a more serious condition? In rare cases, persistent ear and jaw pain could indicate other health issues, such as tumors or vascular problems. This underscores the importance of getting unexplained or severe pain evaluated by a healthcare professional.

Alternative and Complementary Therapies for TMJ Ear Pain Relief

In addition to conventional treatments, some people find relief from TMJ ear pain through alternative and complementary therapies. These may include:

• Acupuncture: This traditional Chinese medicine technique may help reduce pain and muscle tension.
• Massage therapy: Focused massage of the jaw, neck, and shoulder areas can alleviate muscle tightness.
• Biofeedback: This technique helps you become more aware of muscle tension and learn to control it.
• Chiropractic care: Some people report improvement in TMJ symptoms with chiropractic adjustments.
• Herbal remedies: Certain herbs like turmeric or ginger may have anti-inflammatory properties that could help with pain.

Do alternative therapies work for everyone with TMJ ear pain? The effectiveness of these treatments can vary from person to person. It’s important to discuss any alternative therapies with your healthcare provider to ensure they’re safe and appropriate for your specific situation.

The Role of Dental Care in Managing TMJ Ear Pain

Proper dental care plays a crucial role in managing and preventing TMJ ear pain. Here’s how dental professionals can help:

• Bite evaluation: Dentists can assess your bite alignment and recommend corrections if necessary.
• Custom-fitted mouthguards: These can protect against teeth grinding and help maintain proper jaw alignment.
• Orthodontic treatments: In some cases, braces or other orthodontic interventions may be recommended to correct bite issues contributing to TMJ problems.
• Restorative dental work: Fixing damaged or missing teeth can help restore proper bite alignment.

How often should you see a dentist if you have TMJ ear pain? Regular dental check-ups, typically every six months, are important. However, if you’re experiencing ongoing TMJ issues, more frequent visits may be necessary to monitor your condition and adjust treatment as needed.

Understanding the Psychological Impact of Chronic TMJ Ear Pain

Chronic TMJ ear pain can have significant psychological effects, impacting a person’s overall quality of life. Some common psychological challenges associated with chronic TMJ pain include:

• Anxiety and depression
• Sleep disturbances
• Decreased social interaction due to pain or self-consciousness
• Difficulty concentrating or performing daily tasks
• Frustration with ongoing pain and treatment challenges

How can you cope with the emotional toll of chronic TMJ ear pain? Consider the following strategies:

1. Seek support from friends, family, or support groups
2. Practice mindfulness and stress-reduction techniques
3. Engage in enjoyable activities that don’t exacerbate your symptoms
4. Consider talking to a mental health professional for additional support

Can addressing psychological factors help alleviate TMJ ear pain? Yes, managing stress and addressing mental health concerns can often lead to improvement in physical symptoms. A holistic approach that considers both physical and psychological aspects is often most effective in managing chronic TMJ pain.

The Future of TMJ Ear Pain Treatment: Emerging Research and Therapies

Research into TMJ disorders and related ear pain continues to evolve, with new treatments and understanding emerging. Some areas of current research include:

• Stem cell therapy: Investigating the potential of stem cells to regenerate damaged joint tissue.
• Advanced imaging techniques: Developing more precise methods to visualize and diagnose TMJ disorders.
• Targeted pain management: Exploring new medications and delivery methods for more effective pain relief.
• Genetic factors: Studying the role of genetics in TMJ disorders to develop personalized treatment approaches.
• Minimally invasive surgical techniques: Refining surgical interventions to be less invasive and more effective.

What can patients expect from future TMJ ear pain treatments? While it’s difficult to predict specific advancements, the trend is towards more personalized, less invasive, and more effective treatments. Patients can look forward to improved diagnostic tools and a wider range of treatment options in the coming years.

Navigating Insurance Coverage for TMJ Ear Pain Treatment

Dealing with insurance coverage for TMJ ear pain treatment can be challenging, as policies vary widely. Here are some key points to consider:

• Coverage often depends on whether the treatment is considered medical or dental
• Some plans may cover diagnostic procedures but not all treatment options
• Certain treatments, like custom mouthguards, may require pre-authorization
• Alternative therapies are often not covered by traditional insurance plans

How can you maximize your insurance coverage for TMJ ear pain treatment? Consider these steps:

1. Review your policy carefully to understand what’s covered
2. Work with your healthcare provider to document medical necessity
3. Consider appealing denied claims with additional documentation
4. Explore flexible spending accounts or health savings accounts to cover out-of-pocket expenses

Are there financial assistance programs available for TMJ treatment? Some dental schools and clinics offer reduced-cost treatment options. Additionally, some manufacturers of TMJ devices offer patient assistance programs. It’s worth exploring these options if cost is a barrier to treatment.

Living with TMJ Ear Pain: Practical Tips for Daily Management

While seeking professional treatment is crucial, there are many ways to manage TMJ ear pain in your daily life. Here are some practical tips:

• Use heat or cold therapy: Apply moist heat or ice packs to the jaw area for pain relief.
• Practice good posture: Maintain proper alignment, especially when using electronic devices.
• Avoid trigger foods: Identify and limit consumption of foods that exacerbate your symptoms.
• Use proper pillows: Choose pillows that provide adequate neck support while sleeping.
• Take regular breaks: If you work at a desk, take frequent breaks to stretch and relax your jaw muscles.
• Stay hydrated: Proper hydration can help maintain healthy muscle function.

How can you explain your TMJ ear pain to others who may not understand? Educate your friends, family, and colleagues about your condition. Explain that it’s a medical issue affecting your jaw joint that can cause ear pain and other symptoms. This can help them understand your needs and provide appropriate support.

TMJ ear pain, while often challenging to manage, can be effectively treated with the right approach. By understanding the connection between the temporomandibular joint and ear discomfort, recognizing symptoms, and exploring various treatment options, individuals can find relief and improve their quality of life. Remember, each case is unique, and what works for one person may not work for another. Patience, persistence, and open communication with healthcare providers are key to finding the most effective management strategy for your TMJ ear pain.

How TMJ And Ear Pain Are Related And Treated

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Medically Reviewed By Colgate Global Scientific Communications

Did you know that not all ear pain results from an infection? Temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders can result in discomfort in the area. The TMJ connects your jawbone to your skull; it acts as a sliding hinge that assists whenever you speak, chew, and swallow. Learn more about TMJ and ear pain disorders, how to differentiate this sensation from other types, why it occurs, and how to find relief.

What is The TMJ?

The temporomandibular joint (TMJ) connects the bone that forms the side of the skull (temporal bone) and the lower jawbone (mandible), which is near your ear. This joint enables you to move your jaw forward, backward, and side-to-side. The main signs of TMJ disorder are a painful jaw and limited movement in the area.

TMJ Disorders

Although the causes of TMJ disorders are often unclear, discomfort in this joint can be caused by an injury to the jaw, arthritis, teeth grinding, excessive gum chewing, or a misaligned bite. There are three main types of TMJ disorders:

• Myofascial pain: This is the most common type of TMJ disorder. It is marked by deep, aching pain in the muscles of the joint.
• Internal derangement of the joint: This is associated with a dislocated joint or trauma to the jaw.
• Degenerative disease: Arthritis is a type of degenerative joint disorder that can affect the TMJ.

TMJ Pain Characteristics

TMJ pain may be a dull, ongoing irritation or a sharp, searing pain. This discomfort may be more apparent when you move your jaw to talk, chew, swallow, or yawn. In addition to experiencing ear and jaw pain, you might also feel soreness along the side of your head, neck, temple, cheek, face, lower jaw, and teeth. Other common symptoms of TMJ also include:

• A clicking/popping sound when opening the mouth
• Locking of the joint
• Difficulty opening the mouth
• Ringing sound in the ear

Remember to consult with your doctor if your aching ear is companied by any of these symptoms.

Why TMJ Ear Pain Occurs

An aching ear is a common symptom for people with a TMJ disorder. Because the TMJ is near the auditory canal, pain and inflammation in this joint can affect the ear. A ringing sound in the ear, also known as tinnitus, is often a part of TMJ ear pain. An ENT specialist can examine your hearing and eardrum to determine if your earache is related to the TMJ.

What Are the Treatment Options?

Treatment for disorders of the TMJ depends on the cause and severity. If you are experiencing mild pain, your doctor may recommend some of these self-care remedies to reduce soreness and tension in the joint:

• Eat soft-foods
• Try relaxation techniques
• Do TMJ stretches and exercises
• Avoid chewing gum
• Avoid clenching or tensing your jaw
• Apply moist heat to the area

Anti-inflammatory medication and muscle relaxants can also help to relieve tenderness. A mouthguard may be a treatment option if your TMJ pain is caused by teeth grinding; this will prevent damage to the joint. Orthodontic appliances are a great way to correct the upper and lower teeth, as misalignment can result in problems with the temporomandibular joint.

Finding the cause of your ear pain is important because it will lead to getting the correct care. If your earache is a sign of TMJ disorder, the good news is that you can reduce pain and discomfort with a few lifestyle changes. Incorporate breathing exercises to assist with relaxation, which can ease tension on the joint. Speak with your dentist or orthodontist if your TMJ pain is related to an incorrect bite.

This article is intended to promote understanding of and knowledge about general oral health topics. It is not intended to be a substitute for professional advice, diagnosis or treatment. Always seek the advice of your dentist or other qualified healthcare provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition or treatment.

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What Does Ear Pain From TMJ Feel Like?

Home » What Does Ear Pain Caused by TMJ Feel Like?

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Table of Contents:

How do TMJ disorders cause ear pain?
How do I know if my ear pain is from TMJ?
What does ear pain from TMJ feel like?
How long does TMJ ear pain last?

TMJ disorder is a condition characterized by dysfunction of the jaw joints, resulting in pain and other symptoms such as crepitus (clicking or popping sound). TMJ disorder is often associated with ear pain as the temporomandibular joints are connected to the masseter muscles, which run from the rear part of the cheek to the lower jaw. There are several different types of TMJ disorders, and some types tend to cause ear pain more often than others.

How do TMJ disorders cause ear pain?

TMJ disorders can cause ear pain by placing extra stress on the muscles involved in jaw function, but also from inflammation and swelling spreading from another area to the ears. The muscles involved in the functions of the jaw include the masseter, the temporalis, the lateral pterygoid muscle and the medial pterygoid muscle. All of these muscles are fundamental for the jaw’s proper functioning; any stress placed on any one of these muscles can cause facial pain or ear pain. The muscles most associated with ear pain include the masseter and the temporalis muscles, which are located above (temporalis) and below (masseter) of the ear.

How do I know if my ear pain is from TMJ?

Ear pain is a common symptom and can have a number of different causes, including TMJ disorder. One of the most common symptoms of TMJ disorder is ear pain as the jaw joints can become dislocated or the muscles in the ear can spasm due to dysfunction of this joint. Some people experience ear pain that is not related to a TMJ disorder but is caused by another condition, such as a middle ear infection or sinus pain. It is important to see a dentist when experiencing ear pain to determine its cause and the best course of treatment.

What does ear pain from TMJ feel like?

Ear pain caused by a TMJ disorder might be a dull, ongoing irritation or it could be a sharp, searing pain, depending on its cause and the affected tissues. The pain may worsen with jaw movement, although this is not always the case. Inflammation and swelling due to TMJ disorder can spread to the ear, causing ear pain and discomfort. Additionally, straining the muscles connected to the TMJ, such as the masseter and temporalis, can result in ear pain as well as tension headaches and pain behind the eyes.

How long does TMJ ear pain last?

Each individual will have their own causes and symptoms of TMJ disorder, so it is impossible to predict how long the pain will last as well as how severe the pain will be. There are several factors that play a role in the duration of ear pain, including how long the pain has already been present. Other factors include individual physiology, overall health, the treatments received, and the pain tolerance of the individual. It is also important to note that in times of stress or illness, or even during weather changes, TMJ disorder symptoms can flare up, prolonging their total duration. If ear pain from TMJ disorder lasts longer than a week or interferes with the ability to perform everyday activities, it should be addressed by a qualified dentist as soon as possible in order to restore health and live a good quality of life.

If you are experiencing ear pain from TMJ disorder, come to Koala® Centers For Sleep & TMJ Disorders for knowledgeable and personalized care.

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Temporomandibular Joint and Tinnitus – Tinnitus Neuro-Tinnitus Treatment

17
Apr
2019

17 Apr 2019 News, Causes of subjective tinnitus ah, in evidence not needs. The same goes for neck problems. Tinnitus is often caused by injuries to the jaw and neck, which we successfully ignore in our youth. But then, when talking, chewing, turning and tilting the head begin to cause tinnitus, many seek medical help. And they do exactly the right thing. Modern medicine has many opportunities to save such patients from annoying and annoying tinnitus.

Contents of the article:

• 1 Features of the TMJ
• 2 How does the pathology of the TMJ manifest itself?
  • 2. 1 Diagnosis: where and by whom?
• 3 How to treat?
• 4 Neck problems and tinnitus

TMJ features

The temporomandibular joint is a complex articulation that allows the jaw to move not only up and down, but also sideways. In addition, it is controlled by the most powerful muscles of the human body – chewing.

Problems with it can be different:

1. dislocation of the fibrous disc inside the articular cavity;
2. injury of articular surfaces;
3. excessive muscular effort applied to the jaw;
4. arthritis, as a manifestation of systemic pathology and arthrosis, as a result of wear and tear of the joint;
5. infectious processes spreading to the TMJ from the ENT organs, the mastoid process.

How does TMJ pathology manifest itself?

Typical symptoms for the problems listed above are pain when opening the mouth and tinnitus. The reason for the first is clear: swelling of the capsule, friction of the articular heads. As for tinnitus, things are a bit more complicated here.

First, the masticatory muscles are located next to the muscle fibers that control the structures of the middle ear. Therefore, the excessive tone of the masticatory muscles affects hearing, contributes to the appearance of tinnitus.

Secondly, in the pathology of the TMJ, small ligaments that go from the joint to the auditory ossicles of the middle ear may be involved in the process. Comments are superfluous.

Thirdly, the nerve centers that control the work of the temporomandibular joint are closely connected with the parts of the brain responsible for hearing and interpreting sounds. If one system suffers, then the function of the second is also impaired.

In addition, when a joint is dysfunctional, it starts making sounds on its own.

And quite characteristic: clicking with each opening and closing of the mouth, creaking, even grinding. Very annoying and stressful condition.

Diagnostics: where and who?

For most patients, it is enough to see a dentist. But it is also worth preparing for instrumental additional examination: X-ray, CT, and sometimes MRI.

In modern conditions, it is even possible to do arthroscopy: to examine the state of the temporomandibular joint with the help of a microcamera inserted into its cavity.

How to treat?

In many cases, TMJ problems are helped by simple recommendations:

• switch to a soft food diet;
• relaxation exercises for chewing muscles;
• use of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs;
• people with bruxism (teeth grinding at night) should have a special mouth guard fitted.

But sometimes, in order for the noise to finally subside, one has to resort to surgery and even prosthetics of individual structures of the joint.

Neck problems and tinnitus

The cervical spine is very vulnerable, especially in case of an accident. It is also prone to inflammation and osteochondrosis.
Regarding common diseases of the cervical region, we have a separate article on our website (opens in a new tab).

Read about the pathology of the cervical spine

Tinnitus in the pathology of the neck is often accompanied by psycho-emotional disorders (depression), cognitive (poor memory, difficulty concentrating) and somatic (dizziness) disorders.

Naturally, in order to help such patients get rid of tinnitus, it is necessary to establish the source of the problem as accurately as possible, for which the entire arsenal of techniques (X-ray, CT, MRI) is used. And only after a complete examination, it is possible to draw up an algorithm for the treatment of a particular patient.

The Tinnitus Neuro clinic has everything you need for professional assistance to people with cervicogenic tinnitus: call us 8-495-374-92-03 or contact us through the website.

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

TMJ dysfunction – a violation 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 helpers of the joints are the chewing muscles, which help to move the lower jaw relative to the upper one, as well as keep it in the correct anatomical position, while easing the load on the joint.

The joints are quite mobile, they work synchronously, they 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 roughly divided into several categories:

Dental

Lead to dysfunction of the joint due to physiologically incorrect closing 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.

Deterioration also occurs in general condition, :

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 Doctor Levin

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, inflammation in the oral cavity, past dental history, the presence of neurological pathologies
• Visual inspection of the outer 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 in the form of 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 gnathologist also performs a general posture assessment, since 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

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

For the entire duration of treatment it is recommended:

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

How to 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.