What are the common symptoms of TMJ ear pain. How is TMJ ear pain different from other types of ear discomfort. What causes TMJ disorders to produce ear pain. How can TMJ-related ear pain be effectively diagnosed and treated.

The Temporomandibular Joint (TMJ) and Its Connection to Ear Pain

The temporomandibular joint (TMJ) is a complex hinge that connects your jawbone to your skull. Located just in front of each ear, this joint plays a crucial role in everyday activities like speaking, chewing, and swallowing. Due to its proximity to the ear canal, problems with the TMJ can often manifest as ear pain, leading to confusion about the source of discomfort.

TMJ disorders occur when there are issues with the muscles and ligaments surrounding the joint, or with the joint itself. These disorders can cause a variety of symptoms, including pain that radiates to the ear area.

Why Does TMJ Cause Ear Pain?

The close anatomical relationship between the TMJ and the ear structures is the primary reason for TMJ-related ear pain. The TMJ is situated directly in front of the ear canal, and the muscles and nerves that support the joint are interconnected with those of the ear. When the TMJ is inflamed or misaligned, it can put pressure on the surrounding structures, including nerves that also serve the ear, leading to referred pain.

Identifying TMJ Ear Pain: Key Symptoms and Characteristics

TMJ ear pain can be challenging to differentiate from other types of ear discomfort. However, there are several distinctive characteristics that can help identify TMJ as the source of the problem:

• Pain that worsens when moving the jaw (e.g., talking, chewing, yawning)
• A dull, aching sensation in and around the ear
• Ear fullness or pressure without signs of infection
• Tinnitus (ringing in the ears) that may come and go
• Pain that extends to the temple, cheek, or neck
• Clicking or popping sounds when opening or closing the mouth

If you experience these symptoms along with ear pain, it’s more likely that TMJ is the underlying cause rather than an ear infection or other ear-related issue.

Common Causes of TMJ Disorders and Associated Ear Pain

TMJ disorders can arise from various factors, often involving a combination of physical and psychological elements. Understanding these causes can help in both prevention and treatment of TMJ-related ear pain:

1. Teeth grinding (bruxism), often stress-related
2. Jaw misalignment or malocclusion
3. Arthritis affecting the TMJ
4. Physical trauma to the jaw or face
5. Excessive gum chewing or nail biting
6. Poor posture affecting jaw alignment
7. Stress and anxiety leading to jaw tension

Identifying the specific cause in each case is crucial for developing an effective treatment plan.

Diagnosing TMJ Disorders: When to Seek Professional Help

Proper diagnosis of TMJ disorders is essential for effective treatment. If you’re experiencing persistent ear pain along with other TMJ symptoms, it’s important to consult a healthcare professional. A dentist specializing in TMJ disorders or an ear, nose, and throat (ENT) specialist can provide a comprehensive evaluation.

Diagnostic Procedures for TMJ Disorders

The diagnostic process for TMJ disorders typically involves:

• Physical examination of the jaw and surrounding muscles
• Assessment of jaw movement and listening for clicking or grinding sounds
• Detailed medical history to identify potential causes or contributing factors
• Imaging tests such as X-rays, CT scans, or MRIs to visualize the joint structure
• In some cases, a TMJ arthroscopy for a direct view of the joint

These procedures help healthcare providers distinguish TMJ disorders from other conditions that may cause similar symptoms, ensuring that the correct treatment approach is taken.

Treatment Options for TMJ-Related Ear Pain

The treatment of TMJ-related ear pain typically follows a conservative, multifaceted approach. The goal is to alleviate pain, reduce inflammation, and improve jaw function. Treatment options can range from simple self-care measures to more involved medical interventions:

Self-Care and Lifestyle Modifications

• Applying heat or cold packs to the affected area
• Practicing stress-reduction techniques like meditation or yoga
• Avoiding hard or chewy foods that strain the jaw
• Correcting poor posture, especially when working at a desk
• Performing gentle jaw exercises and stretches

Medical Treatments

• Over-the-counter pain relievers and anti-inflammatory medications
• Prescription muscle relaxants for severe cases
• Custom-fitted night guards or splints to prevent teeth grinding
• Botox injections to relax overactive jaw muscles
• In rare cases, surgical intervention for structural problems

The choice of treatment depends on the severity of symptoms and the underlying cause of the TMJ disorder. A personalized treatment plan developed with a healthcare provider often yields the best results.

Long-Term Management and Prevention of TMJ Ear Pain

Managing TMJ disorders and associated ear pain often requires ongoing attention and care. Long-term strategies focus on preventing recurrence and maintaining jaw health:

• Regular dental check-ups to monitor jaw alignment and overall oral health
• Consistent use of prescribed night guards or splints
• Practicing good posture and ergonomics in daily activities
• Stress management techniques to reduce jaw tension
• Avoiding excessive jaw movements, such as wide yawning or aggressive gum chewing
• Maintaining a balanced diet that doesn’t strain the jaw

By incorporating these practices into daily life, many individuals can significantly reduce the frequency and severity of TMJ-related ear pain episodes.

Alternative and Complementary Therapies for TMJ Ear Pain Relief

In addition to conventional treatments, several alternative and complementary therapies have shown promise in managing TMJ-related ear pain:

Acupuncture

This traditional Chinese medicine technique involves inserting thin needles into specific points on the body. Some studies suggest that acupuncture can help reduce TMJ pain and improve jaw function.

Biofeedback

This technique helps individuals become more aware of their body’s responses, including muscle tension. By learning to control these responses, patients can reduce jaw clenching and associated pain.

Massage Therapy

Gentle massage of the jaw muscles and surrounding areas can help relieve tension and improve blood flow, potentially reducing pain and improving jaw mobility.

Chiropractic Care

Some patients find relief through chiropractic adjustments, particularly those focusing on the alignment of the neck and upper spine, which can influence jaw positioning.

Herbal Remedies

Certain herbs with anti-inflammatory properties, such as turmeric or ginger, may help reduce TMJ-related inflammation when used as supplements or in topical applications.

While these alternative approaches can be beneficial, it’s important to discuss them with a healthcare provider before incorporation into your treatment plan, especially if you’re also using conventional medical treatments.

The Impact of TMJ Ear Pain on Quality of Life

TMJ-related ear pain can significantly affect an individual’s daily life and overall well-being. Understanding these impacts is crucial for both patients and healthcare providers in addressing the condition comprehensively:

Physical Effects

• Difficulty eating and enjoying meals
• Disrupted sleep patterns due to pain
• Reduced ability to participate in social activities or sports
• Chronic fatigue from persistent pain and discomfort

Emotional and Psychological Effects

• Increased stress and anxiety related to pain management
• Potential depression from chronic pain and lifestyle limitations
• Frustration with ongoing symptoms and treatment challenges
• Social isolation due to pain-related restrictions

Professional Impact

• Reduced productivity at work
• Difficulty concentrating on tasks due to pain
• Potential career limitations in fields requiring extensive verbal communication

Recognizing these far-reaching effects underscores the importance of prompt and effective treatment for TMJ disorders and associated ear pain. A holistic approach that addresses both the physical symptoms and their broader life impacts often leads to the most satisfactory outcomes for patients.

Emerging Research and Future Treatments for TMJ Disorders

The field of TMJ disorder treatment is continually evolving, with ongoing research offering hope for more effective and targeted therapies in the future. Some promising areas of study include:

Regenerative Medicine

Researchers are exploring the use of stem cells and growth factors to regenerate damaged joint tissues, potentially offering a long-term solution for TMJ disorders.

Advanced Imaging Techniques

New imaging technologies are being developed to provide more detailed views of the TMJ, allowing for earlier and more accurate diagnosis of disorders.

Personalized Medicine Approaches

Studies are underway to identify genetic markers associated with TMJ disorders, potentially leading to more tailored treatment strategies based on individual patient profiles.

Novel Drug Therapies

Pharmaceutical research is focusing on developing new medications that specifically target TMJ pain and inflammation with fewer side effects than current options.

Minimally Invasive Surgical Techniques

Advancements in surgical technology are paving the way for less invasive procedures to correct structural issues in the TMJ, potentially reducing recovery times and improving outcomes.

While these research areas hold promise, it’s important to note that many are still in experimental stages. Patients should continue to work with their healthcare providers to find the most effective current treatments while staying informed about emerging options.

In conclusion, understanding the connection between TMJ disorders and ear pain is crucial for proper diagnosis and treatment. By recognizing the symptoms, causes, and available treatment options, individuals suffering from TMJ-related ear pain can take proactive steps towards relief and improved quality of life. As research continues to advance, the future holds the promise of even more effective and personalized approaches to managing this complex condition.

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.