Tmj ear pain symptoms. TMJ Ear Pain: Symptoms, Causes, and Treatment Options

05.11.202010.07.2023 by alexxlab

How are TMJ disorders and ear pain connected. What does ear pain from TMJ feel like. How can you differentiate TMJ ear pain from other types of ear discomfort. What treatment options are available for TMJ-related ear pain.

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Understanding the Temporomandibular Joint (TMJ)

The temporomandibular joint (TMJ) is a complex and crucial part of our facial anatomy. Located on both sides of the head, it connects the jawbone (mandible) to the skull (temporal bone). This joint acts as a sliding hinge, enabling us to perform essential daily functions such as speaking, chewing, and swallowing.

The TMJ’s unique structure allows for various movements:

Opening and closing the mouth
Side-to-side movements
Forward and backward gliding

Given its proximity to the ear canal, problems with the TMJ can often manifest as ear pain, leading to confusion about the root cause of discomfort.

The Connection Between TMJ Disorders and Ear Pain

TMJ disorders (TMJDs) are a group of conditions affecting the jaw joint and surrounding muscles. These disorders can cause a variety of symptoms, including ear pain. But how exactly are TMJ disorders and ear pain related?

The connection stems from the anatomical proximity of the TMJ to the ear structures. The TMJ is located just in front of the ear, and the muscles and nerves associated with the joint are closely intertwined with those of the ear. When the TMJ is dysfunctional or inflamed, it can cause referred pain to the ear area.

Common reasons for this connection include:

Shared nerve pathways between the jaw and ear
Inflammation spreading from the jaw joint to surrounding areas
Muscle tension affecting both the jaw and ear regions

Identifying TMJ-Related Ear Pain

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

TMJ ear pain typically presents as:

A dull, aching sensation in and around the ear
Pain that worsens when moving the jaw (e.g., chewing, yawning)
Discomfort that extends to the temple, cheek, or neck
A feeling of fullness or pressure in the ear

Additionally, TMJ-related ear pain is often accompanied by other TMJ disorder symptoms, such as:

Clicking or popping sounds when opening the mouth
Jaw stiffness or limited range of motion
Facial muscle tenderness
Headaches, particularly in the temple area

Common Causes of TMJ Disorders

Understanding the underlying causes of TMJ disorders can help in identifying and treating the associated ear pain. While the exact cause isn’t always clear, several factors can contribute to the development of TMJDs:

Teeth grinding (bruxism)
Jaw clenching
Arthritis in the TMJ
Jaw injury or trauma
Misaligned bite
Stress and anxiety
Connective tissue disorders

In many cases, a combination of these factors may be responsible for the development of TMJ disorders and the resulting ear pain.

Diagnosing TMJ-Related Ear Pain

Accurate diagnosis is crucial for effective treatment of TMJ-related ear pain. Healthcare professionals use various methods to determine if the ear pain is indeed caused by a TMJ disorder:

Physical examination of the jaw and surrounding muscles
Assessment of jaw movement and listening for clicking or popping sounds
Detailed medical history to understand symptoms and potential causes
Imaging tests such as X-rays, CT scans, or MRIs to visualize the joint structure
Dental examinations to check for bite issues or signs of teeth grinding

Is it necessary to see a specialist for TMJ-related ear pain? In many cases, a general dentist or primary care physician can diagnose TMJ disorders. However, for complex cases or when standard treatments are ineffective, a referral to a TMJ specialist or oral and maxillofacial surgeon may be recommended.

Treatment Options for TMJ-Related Ear Pain

The treatment of TMJ-related ear pain typically focuses on addressing the underlying TMJ disorder. Depending on the severity and cause of the condition, various treatment options are available:

Conservative Treatments

Rest and avoiding jaw-straining activities
Application of heat or cold packs
Over-the-counter pain relievers and anti-inflammatory medications
Gentle jaw exercises and stretches
Stress management techniques

Dental Interventions

Custom-fitted night guards or splints to prevent teeth grinding
Orthodontic treatments to correct bite issues
Dental work to balance the bite

Physical Therapy

Targeted exercises to strengthen jaw muscles
Ultrasound therapy
Manual manipulation techniques

Advanced Treatments

Prescription medications (muscle relaxants, stronger pain relievers)
Corticosteroid injections
Botox injections to relax jaw muscles
In rare cases, surgical intervention

Can TMJ-related ear pain be treated at home? While professional diagnosis and treatment are important, there are several self-care measures that can help alleviate TMJ-related ear pain:

Practice good posture to reduce strain on the jaw and neck
Avoid chewing gum and eating hard or chewy foods
Use relaxation techniques to reduce jaw tension
Apply moist heat to the jaw area for 10-15 minutes several times a day
Gently massage the jaw and temple area

Long-Term Management and Prevention

Managing TMJ disorders and preventing recurrent ear pain often requires a long-term approach. Key strategies for ongoing management include:

Regular dental check-ups to monitor jaw health and bite alignment
Consistent use of prescribed treatments (e.g., night guards)
Stress management techniques such as meditation or yoga
Maintaining good posture and ergonomics
Avoiding excessive jaw movements or strain

How can lifestyle changes impact TMJ-related ear pain? Making certain lifestyle modifications can significantly reduce the frequency and severity of TMJ symptoms:

Adopting a soft food diet during flare-ups
Practicing proper jaw posture (lips together, teeth apart)
Avoiding habits like nail-biting or pen-chewing
Limiting caffeine intake to reduce muscle tension
Ensuring adequate sleep and rest

When to Seek Professional Help

While many cases of TMJ-related ear pain can be managed with self-care and conservative treatments, there are instances where professional medical attention is necessary. It’s important to consult a healthcare provider if:

Pain persists or worsens despite home remedies
Jaw movement becomes severely limited
Ear pain is accompanied by other symptoms like fever or hearing loss
The pain significantly impacts daily activities or quality of life

Early intervention can prevent the condition from worsening and lead to more effective treatment outcomes.

Understanding the Emotional Impact of Chronic TMJ Pain

Chronic pain associated with TMJ disorders, including persistent ear pain, can have a significant emotional and psychological impact on individuals. It’s important to recognize and address these aspects of the condition:

Increased stress and anxiety
Depression and mood changes
Sleep disturbances
Social isolation due to pain or discomfort
Reduced quality of life

How can patients cope with the emotional aspects of TMJ-related ear pain? Several strategies can help manage the emotional toll of chronic TMJ pain:

Seeking support from friends, family, or support groups
Practicing mindfulness and relaxation techniques
Engaging in regular physical activity, as approved by a healthcare provider
Considering counseling or cognitive-behavioral therapy
Maintaining open communication with healthcare providers about emotional well-being

By addressing both the physical and emotional aspects of TMJ disorders, patients can achieve a more comprehensive and effective management of their condition.

Latest Research and Advancements in TMJ Treatment

The field of TMJ disorder treatment is continually evolving, with ongoing research aimed at improving diagnostic techniques and treatment options. Some recent advancements and areas of study include:

Regenerative medicine approaches, such as stem cell therapy
Advanced imaging techniques for more precise diagnosis
Development of new, more effective pain medications
Exploration of alternative therapies like acupuncture and biofeedback
Improved surgical techniques for severe cases

What promising new treatments are on the horizon for TMJ disorders? While many are still in the research phase, some emerging treatments show potential:

Gene therapy to address underlying genetic factors
Personalized medicine approaches based on individual patient profiles
Advanced bioengineering techniques for joint replacement
Novel pharmacological interventions targeting specific pain pathways

As research progresses, patients with TMJ disorders and related ear pain may have access to more effective and less invasive treatment options in the future.

In conclusion, understanding the connection between TMJ disorders and ear pain is crucial for proper diagnosis and treatment. By recognizing the symptoms, seeking appropriate care, and following a comprehensive management plan, individuals suffering from TMJ-related ear pain can find relief and improve their quality of life. As research continues to advance, the outlook for those affected by TMJ disorders continues to improve, offering hope for more effective treatments and potentially even cures in the future.

How TMJ And Ear Pain Are Related And Treated

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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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:

dislocation of the fibrous disc inside the articular cavity;
injury of articular surfaces;
excessive muscular effort applied to the jaw;
arthritis, as a manifestation of systemic pathology and arthrosis, as a result of wear and tear of the joint;
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:

Complete exclusion of solid food, which will make it possible to maintain conditional rest for the joint
Maximum restriction of mobility – you can not yawn widely, open your mouth
Alternating warm and cold compresses
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.