How does TMJ cause ear pain. What are the common symptoms of TMJ-related ear discomfort. What treatment options are available for managing TMJ ear pain. How can you differentiate TMJ ear pain from other types of ear pain. What are the best home remedies for relieving TMJ ear discomfort.

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

The temporomandibular joint (TMJ) is a complex structure that connects your jawbone to your skull. It functions as a sliding hinge, playing a crucial role in everyday activities such as 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 can arise from various factors, including:

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

These conditions can lead to inflammation and discomfort in the joint, which may radiate to the surrounding areas, including the ear.

Types of TMJ Disorders

TMJ disorders are typically classified into three main categories:

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

Recognizing TMJ Ear Pain: Symptoms and Characteristics

TMJ-related ear pain can be challenging to differentiate from other types of ear discomfort. However, certain characteristics can help identify TMJ as the source of the problem.

How does TMJ ear pain feel? TMJ ear pain typically presents as:

• A dull, ongoing irritation
• Sharp, searing pain
• Discomfort that intensifies when moving the jaw (talking, chewing, swallowing, or yawning)
• Soreness along the side of the head, neck, temple, cheek, face, lower jaw, and teeth

Additionally, TMJ disorders may cause other symptoms that can help in diagnosis:

• Clicking or popping sounds when opening the mouth
• Locking of the joint
• Difficulty opening the mouth
• Tinnitus (ringing sound in the ear)

The Mechanism Behind TMJ-Related Ear Pain

Why does TMJ cause ear pain? The close anatomical relationship between the TMJ and the ear explains this connection. When the TMJ becomes inflamed or irritated, it can affect the surrounding structures, including the auditory canal.

The pain may be due to:

• Referred pain from the inflamed joint
• Tension in the muscles surrounding both the TMJ and the ear
• Pressure on the auditory nerves
• Disruption of the eustachian tube function

It’s important to note that while TMJ disorders can cause ear pain, not all ear pain is related to TMJ issues. An ENT specialist can help determine the exact cause of your discomfort.

Diagnosing TMJ Ear Pain: Distinguishing It from Other Conditions

How can you differentiate TMJ ear pain from other types of ear discomfort? While a proper diagnosis should always be made by a healthcare professional, there are some key factors to consider:

• TMJ ear pain often coincides with jaw pain or discomfort
• The pain may worsen when moving the jaw
• Other TMJ symptoms (like clicking or difficulty opening the mouth) may be present
• The pain might not respond to typical ear infection treatments

A thorough examination by a dentist, orthodontist, or ENT specialist can help confirm the diagnosis. They may use various diagnostic tools, including:

• Physical examination of the jaw and surrounding muscles
• Dental X-rays
• CT scans or MRIs to visualize the joint structures
• TMJ arthroscopy in complex cases

Treatment Options for TMJ-Related Ear Pain

The treatment approach for TMJ ear pain depends on the underlying cause and severity of the condition. In many cases, conservative, non-invasive treatments can provide significant relief.

Self-Care and Home Remedies

What are some effective home remedies for TMJ ear pain? Consider trying these self-care measures:

• Eating soft foods to reduce stress on the jaw
• Practicing relaxation techniques to alleviate muscle tension
• Performing gentle TMJ stretches and exercises
• Avoiding habits that stress the joint (like gum chewing or jaw clenching)
• Applying moist heat to the affected area
• Using over-the-counter pain relievers and anti-inflammatory medications

Professional Treatments

For more persistent or severe cases, professional interventions may be necessary:

• Prescription medications (muscle relaxants, stronger pain relievers)
• Custom-fitted mouthguards or night guards to prevent teeth grinding
• Orthodontic treatments to correct bite misalignment
• Physical therapy to improve jaw mobility and reduce pain
• Trigger point injections to relax tense muscles
• In rare cases, surgical interventions may be considered

Lifestyle Modifications to Manage TMJ Ear Pain

Long-term management of TMJ-related ear pain often involves making certain lifestyle changes. These modifications can help reduce stress on the TMJ and prevent recurrence of symptoms.

What lifestyle changes can help alleviate TMJ ear pain?

• Practicing good posture to reduce tension in the neck and jaw muscles
• Managing stress through techniques like meditation or yoga
• Avoiding excessive jaw movements (like wide yawning or vigorous chewing)
• Using proper ergonomics when working or studying to prevent neck and jaw strain
• Maintaining a balanced diet rich in anti-inflammatory foods
• Getting adequate sleep to promote overall joint health

Remember, consistency is key when implementing these changes. It may take time to see significant improvements, but perseverance can lead to long-term relief.

When to Seek Professional Help for TMJ Ear Pain

While many cases of TMJ-related ear pain can be managed with self-care measures, there are instances when professional intervention is necessary. But when should you consult a healthcare provider for TMJ ear pain?

Consider seeking medical attention if:

• The pain is severe or persistent
• You experience difficulty eating or opening your mouth
• The pain significantly impacts your daily life
• You notice changes in your bite or jaw alignment
• Home remedies and over-the-counter treatments provide no relief
• You experience other concerning symptoms like fever or swelling

Early intervention can prevent the condition from worsening and improve your chances of successful treatment.

Preventive Measures to Reduce the Risk of TMJ Disorders

While not all cases of TMJ disorders are preventable, certain measures can help reduce your risk or prevent the condition from worsening.

How can you prevent TMJ disorders and associated ear pain?

• Practice stress management techniques to reduce jaw clenching and teeth grinding
• Maintain good posture, especially when using electronic devices
• Avoid excessive gum chewing or chewing on hard objects
• Wear a mouthguard during high-impact sports to protect your jaw
• Address dental issues promptly to maintain proper bite alignment
• Be mindful of jaw movements and avoid overextending

By incorporating these preventive measures into your daily routine, you can potentially reduce the risk of developing TMJ disorders and the associated ear pain.

The Impact of TMJ Ear Pain on Quality of Life

TMJ-related ear pain can significantly impact an individual’s quality of life. The persistent discomfort can affect various aspects of daily living, including:

• Eating and drinking
• Speaking and communication
• Sleep quality
• Concentration and work performance
• Social interactions
• Overall mood and mental health

Understanding the potential impact of TMJ disorders emphasizes the importance of prompt diagnosis and treatment. By addressing the issue early, you can minimize its effects on your daily life and overall well-being.

Future Directions in TMJ Disorder Research and Treatment

The field of TMJ disorder research is continually evolving, with new insights and treatment approaches emerging. Some promising areas of research include:

• Advanced imaging techniques for more accurate diagnosis
• Regenerative medicine approaches, such as stem cell therapy
• Personalized treatment plans based on genetic factors
• Novel pain management strategies
• Improved surgical techniques for severe cases

As research progresses, we can expect more effective and less invasive treatment options for TMJ disorders and associated ear pain in the future.

TMJ-related ear pain can be a challenging condition to manage, but with proper understanding and treatment, relief is possible. By recognizing the symptoms, seeking timely medical advice, and implementing appropriate lifestyle changes, you can effectively manage TMJ ear pain and improve your quality of life. Remember, each case is unique, so working closely with healthcare professionals to develop a personalized treatment plan is crucial for optimal outcomes.

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.