What are TMJ disorders. How do they affect the jaw and surrounding structures. What causes TMJ problems. What are the common symptoms of TMJ disorders. How are TMJ disorders diagnosed and treated.

Understanding TMJ Disorders: An Overview of Temporomandibular Joint Issues

Temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders are a group of conditions affecting the jaw joint and surrounding muscles. These disorders can cause significant discomfort and interfere with daily activities such as eating and speaking. TMJ disorders are relatively common, affecting millions of people worldwide.

The temporomandibular joint is a complex structure that connects the lower jaw (mandible) to the skull. It’s located on both sides of the head, just in front of the ears. This joint allows for various movements, including opening and closing the mouth, as well as side-to-side and forward-backward motions of the jaw.

Key Components of the TMJ

• Cartilage disk
• Jaw and facial muscles
• Ligaments
• Blood vessels
• Nerves
• Teeth

When any of these components are affected, it can lead to TMJ disorders, causing pain and dysfunction in the jaw area.

Common Causes and Risk Factors for TMJ Disorders

The exact cause of TMJ disorders is often unclear and can vary from person to person. In many cases, a combination of factors may contribute to the development of these conditions.

Potential Causes of TMJ Disorders

• Jaw injury or trauma
• Teeth grinding (bruxism)
• Arthritis
• Stress
• Poor posture
• Genetic factors
• Hormonal changes

Do certain professions increase the risk of developing TMJ disorders? Some occupations that require prolonged periods of jaw clenching or teeth grinding, such as musicians who play wind instruments or individuals who work in high-stress environments, may be at a higher risk of developing TMJ problems.

Recognizing the Symptoms of TMJ Disorders

TMJ disorders can manifest in various ways, and symptoms may range from mild discomfort to severe pain. It’s essential to recognize these symptoms early to seek appropriate treatment.

Common TMJ Disorder Symptoms

1. Jaw pain or tenderness
2. Facial pain
3. Difficulty chewing or biting
4. Clicking or popping sounds when opening or closing the mouth
5. Jaw locking or limited jaw movement
6. Headaches
7. Earaches or tinnitus (ringing in the ears)
8. Neck and shoulder pain

Can TMJ disorders cause referred pain in other parts of the body? Yes, TMJ problems can lead to pain in areas beyond the jaw, including the neck, shoulders, and even the back. This is due to the complex network of nerves and muscles connected to the temporomandibular joint.

Diagnosing TMJ Disorders: The Importance of a Comprehensive Evaluation

Accurately diagnosing TMJ disorders often requires a multidisciplinary approach, involving healthcare professionals from various specialties. This comprehensive evaluation helps rule out other conditions and determine the most appropriate treatment plan.

Diagnostic Procedures for TMJ Disorders

• Physical examination of the jaw and surrounding areas
• Dental examination to assess bite alignment
• Medical history review
• Imaging tests (X-rays, CT scans, or MRI)
• TMJ arthroscopy (in some cases)

Is there a specific test to definitively diagnose TMJ disorders? While there is no single definitive test for TMJ disorders, a combination of clinical examinations, imaging studies, and patient history can help healthcare providers make an accurate diagnosis.

Conservative Treatment Approaches for TMJ Disorders

In most cases, TMJ disorders can be effectively managed with conservative, non-invasive treatments. These approaches aim to alleviate pain, reduce inflammation, and improve jaw function.

Non-Invasive TMJ Treatment Options

1. Soft diet and jaw rest
2. Heat and cold therapy
3. Jaw exercises and stretches
4. Stress management techniques
5. Over-the-counter pain relievers
6. Physical therapy
7. Massage therapy

How long does it typically take for conservative treatments to show results? The effectiveness of conservative treatments can vary depending on the individual and the severity of the TMJ disorder. Some people may experience relief within a few weeks, while others may require several months of consistent treatment to see significant improvements.

Medications and Advanced Therapies for TMJ Disorders

When conservative treatments are insufficient, healthcare providers may recommend medications or more advanced therapies to manage TMJ disorders.

Pharmacological and Advanced Treatment Options

• Prescription pain medications
• Muscle relaxants
• Antidepressants (for pain management)
• Corticosteroid injections
• Botulinum toxin (Botox) injections
• Transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (TENS)
• Ultrasound therapy

Are there any emerging treatments for TMJ disorders? Researchers are exploring various innovative approaches, including regenerative medicine techniques such as platelet-rich plasma (PRP) therapy and stem cell treatments. While these methods show promise, more research is needed to establish their long-term efficacy and safety.

The Role of Dental Appliances in Managing TMJ Disorders

Dental appliances, such as mouth guards or splints, are often prescribed to help alleviate TMJ symptoms and protect the teeth from grinding or clenching.

Types of Dental Appliances for TMJ Disorders

1. Stabilization splints
2. Repositioning splints
3. Soft nightguards
4. Custom-made occlusal appliances

Do all TMJ patients benefit from dental appliances? While many people find relief with dental appliances, their effectiveness can vary. Some individuals may experience significant improvement, while others may see little to no change in their symptoms. It’s essential to work closely with a healthcare provider to determine if a dental appliance is appropriate for your specific case.

Surgical Interventions for Severe TMJ Disorders

In rare cases where conservative treatments and medications fail to provide relief, surgical interventions may be considered. However, surgery is typically viewed as a last resort due to the potential risks and complications involved.

Surgical Options for TMJ Disorders

• Arthrocentesis
• Arthroscopy
• Open joint surgery
• Total joint replacement

What are the potential risks and complications of TMJ surgery? As with any surgical procedure, TMJ surgery carries risks such as infection, nerve damage, and scarring. Additionally, there’s no guarantee that surgery will completely resolve TMJ symptoms, and in some cases, it may even worsen the condition. This is why surgery is typically considered only after all other treatment options have been exhausted.

Lifestyle Modifications and Self-Care Strategies for TMJ Management

Adopting certain lifestyle changes and incorporating self-care practices can play a crucial role in managing TMJ disorders and preventing symptom flare-ups.

Self-Care Tips for TMJ Relief

1. Practice good posture
2. Avoid excessive jaw movements (e.g., wide yawning, gum chewing)
3. Use relaxation techniques to reduce stress
4. Apply moist heat or ice packs to the jaw area
5. Maintain a balanced diet with soft foods
6. Get adequate sleep and rest
7. Perform gentle jaw exercises as recommended by a healthcare provider

Can certain foods help alleviate TMJ symptoms? While there’s no specific diet proven to cure TMJ disorders, consuming anti-inflammatory foods such as omega-3 rich fish, fruits, vegetables, and whole grains may help reduce inflammation and support overall joint health. Additionally, avoiding hard, chewy, or crunchy foods can help minimize stress on the jaw joint.

The Connection Between TMJ Disorders and Other Health Conditions

TMJ disorders often coexist with other health issues, and understanding these connections can lead to more comprehensive treatment approaches.

Health Conditions Associated with TMJ Disorders

• Chronic pain syndromes (e.g., fibromyalgia)
• Sleep disorders
• Anxiety and depression
• Headaches and migraines
• Neck and back pain
• Tinnitus (ringing in the ears)

Does treating TMJ disorders help alleviate symptoms of associated conditions? In many cases, addressing TMJ problems can lead to improvements in related health issues. For example, managing TMJ pain may help reduce the frequency and intensity of headaches or improve sleep quality. However, it’s essential to work with healthcare providers to develop a comprehensive treatment plan that addresses all aspects of your health.

Prevention Strategies and Long-Term Management of TMJ Disorders

While it may not always be possible to prevent TMJ disorders, certain strategies can help reduce the risk of developing these conditions or minimize symptom recurrence.

TMJ Disorder Prevention and Management Tips

1. Practice stress management techniques
2. Maintain good posture, especially when using electronic devices
3. Avoid excessive gum chewing or nail biting
4. Use proper form when exercising or lifting heavy objects
5. Seek early treatment for dental issues
6. Be mindful of jaw clenching or teeth grinding
7. Consider using a night guard if prescribed by a dentist

Is it possible to completely cure TMJ disorders? While many people experience significant improvement or even complete resolution of their TMJ symptoms with appropriate treatment, others may require ongoing management. The goal of treatment is to minimize pain, improve function, and enhance overall quality of life. Long-term success often involves a combination of professional care and self-management strategies.

The Impact of TMJ Disorders on Quality of Life and Mental Health

Living with TMJ disorders can significantly affect a person’s daily life, potentially leading to emotional distress and reduced overall well-being.

Ways TMJ Disorders Can Affect Quality of Life

• Chronic pain and discomfort
• Difficulty eating and speaking
• Sleep disturbances
• Reduced social interactions
• Impaired work or school performance
• Anxiety and depression
• Decreased self-esteem

How can individuals cope with the emotional impact of TMJ disorders? Seeking support from mental health professionals, joining support groups, and practicing mindfulness techniques can help manage the emotional challenges associated with chronic TMJ pain. Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) has also shown promise in helping individuals develop coping strategies and improve their overall quality of life while dealing with TMJ disorders.

Future Directions in TMJ Disorder Research and Treatment

As our understanding of TMJ disorders continues to evolve, researchers are exploring new avenues for diagnosis, treatment, and prevention.

Emerging Areas of TMJ Research

1. Genetic factors influencing TMJ disorders
2. Advanced imaging techniques for early diagnosis
3. Biomarkers for TMJ inflammation and pain
4. Regenerative medicine approaches
5. Personalized treatment strategies
6. Novel drug therapies targeting specific pain pathways
7. Minimally invasive surgical techniques

What potential breakthroughs in TMJ treatment can we expect in the coming years? While it’s difficult to predict specific breakthroughs, ongoing research in areas such as tissue engineering, nanotechnology, and targeted drug delivery systems holds promise for developing more effective and less invasive treatments for TMJ disorders. Additionally, advancements in artificial intelligence and machine learning may lead to improved diagnostic tools and personalized treatment plans.

As research progresses, individuals living with TMJ disorders can look forward to potentially more effective and tailored treatment options in the future. In the meantime, working closely with healthcare providers and adopting a multidisciplinary approach to management can help many people find relief from TMJ-related symptoms and improve their overall quality of life.

TMJ disorders: MedlinePlus Medical Encyclopedia

Temporomandibular joint and muscle disorders (TMJ disorders) are problems that affect the chewing muscles and joints that connect your lower jaw to your skull.

There are 2 matching temporomandibular joints on each side of your head. They are located just in front of your ears. The abbreviation “TMJ” refers to the name of the joint, but it is often used to mean any disorders or symptoms of this region.

Many TMJ-related symptoms are caused by the effects of physical stress on the structures around the joint. These structures include:

• Cartilage disk at the joint
• Muscles of the jaw, face, and neck
• Nearby ligaments, blood vessels, and nerves
• Teeth

For many people with temporomandibular joint disorders, the cause is unknown. Some causes given for this condition are not well-proven. They include:

• A bad bite or orthodontic braces.
• Stress and tooth grinding. Many people with TMJ problems do not grind their teeth, and many who have been grinding their teeth for a long time do not have problems with their temporomandibular joint. For some people, the stress associated with this disorder may be caused by the pain, as opposed to being the cause of the problem.

Poor posture can also be an important factor in TMJ symptoms. For example, holding your head forward while looking at a computer all day strains the muscles of your face and neck.

Other factors that may make TMJ symptoms worse include poor diet and lack of sleep.

Many people end up having “trigger points.” These are contracted muscles in your jaw, head, and neck. Trigger points can refer pain to other areas, causing a headache, earache, or toothache.

Other possible causes of TMJ-related symptoms include arthritis, fractures, dislocations, and structural problems present since birth.

Symptoms associated with TMJ disorders may be:

• Biting or chewing difficulty or discomfort
• Clicking, popping, or grating sound when opening or closing the mouth
• Dull, aching pain in the face
• Earache
• Headache
• Jaw pain or tenderness of the jaw
• Locking of the jaw
• Difficulty opening or closing the mouth

You may need to see more than one medical specialist for your TMJ pain and symptoms. This may include a health care provider, a dentist, or an ear, nose, and throat (ENT) doctor, depending on your symptoms.

You will need a thorough exam that involves:

• A dental exam to show if you have poor bite alignment
• Feeling the joint and muscles for tenderness
• Pressing around the head to locate areas that are sensitive or painful
• Sliding the teeth from side to side
• Watching, feeling, and listening to the jaw open and shut
• X-rays, CT scan, MRI, Doppler test of the TMJ

Sometimes, the results of the physical exam may appear normal.

Your provider will also need to consider other conditions, such as infections, nerve-related problems, and headaches that may be causing your symptoms.

Simple, gentle therapies are recommended first.

• Soft diet to calm the joint inflammation.
• Learn how to gently stretch, relax, or massage the muscles around your jaw. Your provider, dentist, or physical therapist can help you with these.
• Avoid actions that cause your symptoms, such as yawning, singing, and chewing gum.
• Try moist heat or cold packs on your face.
• Learn stress-reducing techniques.
• Exercise several times each week to help you increase your ability to handle pain.
• Bite analysis.

Read as much as you can on how to treat TMJ disorders, as opinion varies widely. Get the opinions of several providers. The good news is that most people eventually find something that helps.

Ask your provider or dentist about medicines you can use. These might include:

• Short-term use of acetaminophen or ibuprofen, naproxen (or other nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs)
• Muscle relaxant medicines or antidepressants
• Muscle relaxant injections like toxin botulinum
• Rarely, corticosteroid shots in the TMJ to treat inflammation

Mouth or bite guards, also called splints or appliances, have long been used to treat teeth grinding, clenching, and TMJ disorders. They may or may not help.

• While many people have found them to be useful, the benefits vary widely. The guard may lose its effectiveness over time, or when you stop wearing it. Other people may feel worse pain when they wear one.
• There are different types of splints. Some fit over the top teeth, while others fit over the bottom teeth.
• Permanent use of these items may not be recommended. You should also stop if they cause any changes in your bite.

If conservative treatments do not work, it does not automatically mean you need more aggressive treatment. Use caution when considering treatment methods that cannot be reversed, such as orthodontics or surgery that permanently changes your bite.

Reconstructive surgery of the jaw, or joint replacement, is rarely required. In fact, the results are often worse than before surgery.

You can get more information and find support groups through the TMJ Syndrome Association at www.tmj.org.

For many people, symptoms occur only sometimes and do not last long. They tend to go away in time with little or no treatment. Most cases can be successfully treated.

Some cases of pain go away on their own without treatment. TMJ-related pain may return again in the future. If the cause is nighttime clenching, treatment can be very tricky because it is a sleeping behavior that is hard to control.

Mouth splints are a common treatment approach for teeth grinding. While some splints may silence the grinding by providing a flat, even surface, they may not be as effective at reducing pain or stopping clenching. Splints may work well in the short-term, but could become less effective over time. Some splints can also cause bite changes if they are not fitted properly. This may cause a new problem.

TMJ may cause:

• Chronic face pain
• Chronic headaches

See your provider right away if you are having trouble eating or opening your mouth. Keep in mind that many conditions can cause TMJ symptoms, from arthritis to whiplash injuries. Experts who are specially trained in facial pain can help diagnose and treat TMJ.

Many of the home-care steps to treat TMJ problems can also help prevent the condition. These steps include:

• Avoid eating hard foods and chewing gum.
• Learn relaxation techniques to reduce overall stress and muscle tension.
• Maintain good posture, especially if you work all day at a computer. Pause often to change position, rest your hands and arms, and relieve stressed muscles.
• Use safety measures to reduce the risk for fractures and dislocations.

TMD; Temporomandibular joint disorders; Temporomandibular muscle disorders; Costen’s syndrome; Craniomandibular disorder; Temporomandibular disorder

Indresano AT, Park CM. Nonsurgical management of temporomandibular joint disorders. In: Fonseca RJ, ed. Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery. 3rd ed. St Louis, MO: Elsevier; 2018:chap 39.

Lee E, Crowder HR, Tummala N, Goodman JF, Abbott J, Zapanta PE. Temporomandibular disorder treatment algorithm for otolaryngologists. Am J Otolaryngol. 2021;42(6):103155. PMID: 34214714. pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34214714/.

Okeson JP. Temporomandibular disorders. In: Kellerman RD, Rakel DP, eds. Conn’s Current Therapy 2022. Philadelphia, PA: Elsevier; 2022:522-525.

Pedigo RA, Amsterdam JT. Oral medicine. In: Walls RM, Hockberger RS, Gausche-Hill M, eds. Rosen’s Emergency Medicine: Concepts and Clinical Practice. 9th ed. Philadelphia, PA: Elsevier; 2018:chap 60.

Updated by: Michael Kapner, DDS, General Dentistry, Norwalk Medical Center, Norwalk CT. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network. Also reviewed by David Zieve, MD, MHA, Medical Director, Brenda Conaway, Editorial Director, and the A.D.A.M. Editorial team.

TMJ (Temporomandibular Joint) Disorders: Symptoms and More

The temporomandibular joint (TMJ) is the joint that connects your mandible (lower jaw) to your skull. The joint can be found on both sides of your head in front of your ears. It allows your jaw to open and close, letting you to speak and eat.

The abbreviation “TMJ” has also been used to refer to a group of health conditions related to your jaw. However, this is becoming more commonly abbreviated as “TMD” or “TMJD” to distinguish the temporomandibular joint itself from TMJ disorders.

These disorders can cause:

• tenderness at the joint
• facial pain
• difficulty moving the joint

According to the National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research, as many as 10 million Americans suffer from TMJ disorders. They are more common among women than men.

These disorders are treatable, but they have many different possible causes. This can make diagnosis difficult.

Keep reading to learn more about TMJ disorders. You should discuss any concerns with your doctor.

The symptoms of TMJ disorders depend on the severity and cause of your condition. The most common symptom of TMJ disorders is pain in the jaw and surrounding muscles.

According to 2021 research, other symptoms typically associated with these disorders include:

• pain that can be felt in the face or neck
• stiffness in the muscles of the jaw
• limited movement of the jaw
• locking of the jaw
• clicking or popping sound from the TMJ site
• dental issues, such as the wearing down of teeth
• tinnitus (ringing in the ear)
• vertigo
• headaches
• shift in the jaw, changing the way that the upper and lower teeth align (called malocclusion)

Symptoms may show up on just one side of the face or both.

Because TMJ disorders can have a variety of causes, there are also a variety of ways to treat them.

Physicians will typically advise starting with home treatments first. This is because many of the more complicated treatments still need more studies to prove their efficiency.

Home treatments

In a lot of cases, the symptoms of TMJ disorders can be treated with self-care practices at home. To ease the symptoms of TMJ at home, you can:

• Eat soft foods.
• Use ice to reduce swelling.
• Reduce jaw movements.
• Avoid chewing gum and tough foods (like beef jerky).
• Take measures to reduce stress.
• Use jaw-stretching exercises to help improve jaw movement.

Medication

If you find that your TMJ is not eased by using home treatments, some medications — both over-the-counter and prescribed by a doctor — may provide more relief.

Some of these medications include:

• nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs)
• corticosteroids
• muscle relaxers
• antidepressants
• local anesthetics

Your doctor will help you decide which medication is best for you, based on your personal condition and health history.

Therapies

Occasionally, your doctor may recommend physical therapy. Depending on the area that needs attention, your therapy could include:

• heat therapy
• cooling therapy
• acupuncture
• tissue mobilization
• resistance exercises
• stretches

If you and your doctor believe your TMJ disorder may be caused by stress, talk therapy or stress management exercises are additional options.

Surgery or other procedures

If your symptoms don’t improve with the methods listed above, your doctor may decide that your condition requires serious treatment.

Botox injections are one such treatment. Typically, these injections are done for painful trigger points or chronic teeth grinding. The evidence behind this treatment is still lacking, however.

In very rare cases, your doctor may recommend surgery to treat your condition. Procedures can include:

• corrective dental treatment to improve your bite and align your teeth
• arthrocentesis, which removes fluid and debris from the joint
• surgery to replace the joint

Procedures used to treat this condition may, in some cases, make your symptoms worse. Talk with your doctor about the potential risks of these procedures.

In many cases, it’s not known what causes TMJ disorders. Trauma to the jaw or joint may play a role. There are also other health conditions that may contribute to the development of TMJ disorders.

These include:

• arthritis
• erosion (wearing away) of the joint
• habitual grinding or clenching of the teeth
• structural jaw issues present at birth
• growth disorders

Risk factors

While there are some factors that are often associated with the development of TMJ disorders, they haven’t been proven to be a direct cause.

Some of these include:

• female hormones (it’s theorized that estrogen may play a role in the development of TMJ)
• poor posture that strains the muscles of the neck and face
• prolonged stress
• joint hypermobility

TMJ disorders can be difficult to diagnose. There are no standard tests to diagnose most of the disorders that fall under that title. A doctor may refer you to a dentist, or an ear, nose, and throat (ENT) specialist to diagnose your condition.

A healthcare professional may examine your to see if there is swelling or tenderness. They may also use several different imaging tests.

These can include:

• X-rays. X-rays of the jaw and teeth usually involve you biting down on a small mouthpiece as your dentist moves an imaging machine around your head. These X-rays will allow your dentist to see the bones in and around your jaw, as well as your teeth placement.
• CT scan. A CT scan of the jaw allows your doctor to see the bones and joint tissues in a more advanced way than a regular X-ray.
• MRI. An MRI of the jaw will reveal if there are problems with the structure of the jaw. An MRI, or magnetic resonance imaging scan, uses a magnetic field to show detailed images of organs and tissues.

You may not be able to prevent TMJ disorder from developing, but you might be able to reduce symptoms by lowering your stress levels, employing physical therapy and exercises, and working with a dentist or doctor if you often grind your teeth at night.

Possible solutions for teeth grinding include wearing a mouth guard at night and occasionally taking muscle relaxants.

Can TMJ disorder be cured?

TMJ can be caused by a variety of issues, such as trauma to the jaw or persistent stress, so curing the symptoms is directly connected to curing, or easing, the condition that caused them.

However, many individuals find that their TMJ symptoms improve or even go away on their own within weeks or months if home remedies are employed.

Are TMJ disorders serious?

While many people find their TMJ symptoms go away on their own after addressing the root cause, other individuals may deal with more serious symptoms that can affect their quality of life.

Even when someone is dealing with a more serious case of TMJ disorder, it’s recommended to avoid aggressive treatments such as surgery whenever possible, because there is still not enough evidence to show that these irreversible methods work.

There are a wide variety of treatments available for TMJ disorders. If one doesn’t work for you right away, work with your doctor to find one that does.

What will happen if TMJ disorder is not treated?

TMJ isn’t life threatening, but if it’s not treated, it can cause pretty persistent discomfort and tension in and around your jaw. It’s also possible that the affected joints could become inflamed, and there may even be damage to your teeth.

You don’t have to deal with the pain and discomfort of TMJ alone. Talk with your doctor or dentist about your symptoms.

The outlook for TMJ disorders depends on the cause of the condition. TMJ disorders can be successfully treated in many people with at-home remedies, such as changing posture or reducing stress.

If your condition is caused by a chronic (long-term) disease such as arthritis, lifestyle changes may not be enough. Arthritis can wear down the joint over time and increase pain. There are, however, many treatments to help with the symptoms of arthritis itself.

Most cases of TMJ disorder warrant changes in lifestyle habits, possibly combined with medications to ease pain and discomfort. Aggressive treatments are rarely needed.

Talk with your doctor about your options to determine what treatment is right for you.

Jaw – TMJ disorder | Treatment at the Champel Dental Center

Temporomandibular joint dysfunction or algodysfunctional syndrome of the mandibular apparatus (ADMAS) is a complex of symptoms that can manifest itself very variably, associated with one or more of the following manifestations

• Painful manifestations (ear pain, headache pain in the temples, pain in the jaw).
• Articular manifestations: articular noises (clicks when opening the mouth, creaking), painful or non-painful restriction of mouth opening, discomfort when chewing and eating, feeling of joint instability, blocking when the mouth is closed or, conversely, blocking when the mouth is wide open.
• Other manifestations such as ringing in the ears (tinnitus) or neck pain.

The various mechanisms that cause TMJ dysfunction are complex, but various risk factors, often interrelated, are known to cause this dysfunction.

1. Anomalies dental articulation (way of articulation of the upper and lower jaws with each other).
2. Injuries and fractures of the face (especially jaw), skull or neck. They can lead to damage to the temporomandibular joint.
3. Stressful life events and high levels of anxiety seem to aggravate symptoms.
4. Parafunction is unconscious or unconscious hyperactivity of the jaw muscles, sometimes associated with tooth wear and night grinding (this is a case of bruxism). They are often associated with the stress of everyday life and abnormalities in dental articulation.
5. Hyperlaxia is due to the presence of too loose, too stretched ligaments. Often found in young women. This results in too much maximum mouth opening. This favors blockage when the mouth is wide open (dislocation of the jaw).
6. Rheumatic diseases may occur in the jaw joint.

What is the origin of pain and its treatment?

There are two types of pain:

• Most often they have muscular origin and occur in the initial stages of the disease. They are associated with muscle spasms and contractures.
• They become articular as the disease progresses and joint damage appears. In fact, at this stage they are most often intertwined (muscular and articular).

It is the difference between these two types of pain that determines the success and delivery of the treatment.

At the initial stage, the doctor often cannot determine whether the pain is mainly due to muscle spasms or to diseases of the joints, unless you have a completely normal examination of the joints (purely muscular stage) or, on the contrary, the problem with the joints is obvious, for example, in case of severe osteoarthritis.

Therefore, we usually start (except in special cases) treatment with occlusal devices. This treatment is able to relieve pain of muscular origin and regulate minor and still reversible articular disorders.
This treatment, which should last at least 2-3 months, allows us to distinguish between two origins of pain (muscular or joint).

Nine times out of ten, an occlusal treatment is effective and solves your problem, as the pain is usually associated with muscle spasms and minor joint disturbances after muscle spasms. Even if after treatment and after the pain has disappeared, a clicking sound remains, indicating a violation of the small joints, this is acceptable, since this is clearly not the cause of your pain.

The result obtained can be stabilized by treating anomalies of the dental articulation in order to place the joint and lower jaw in the most stable and least traumatic position.

Temporomandibular joint (TMJ)

1. home
2. Temporomandibular joint (TMJ)

Structure of the TMJ

The temporomandibular joint (TMJ) is a paired joint projected in the anterior part of the auricles, located at the point where the skull meets the lower jaw.

The anatomical structural elements of the joint are: the articular head; articular cavity; intra-articular disc dividing the joint cavity into the upper and lower floors, the joint capsule and the ligamentous apparatus.

TMJ pathologies include:

• muscular-articular dysfunction of the TMJ, as a result of internal disorders or a joint of the ligamentous-muscular apparatus
• arthrosis
• arthritis
• synovitis
• chondromatosis
• ankylosis

TMJ dysfunction

Muscle-articular dysfunction of the TMJ can cause disruption of the work of such muscle groups as masticatory, mimic, cervical; or cause intra-articular disorders of the movement and position of the disc and (or) ligamentous apparatus.

Arthrosis

Degenerative changes in the TMJ are most often described by radiation diagnosticians and manifested as a narrowing of the joint space on CT or MRI examination, which is a symptom of other diseases of the TMJ.

Arthritis

Inflammatory disease of the TMJ, the causes of which can be specific (tuberculosis, syphilis) or non-specific infectious agents; as well as autoimmune and connective tissue diseases.

Ankylosis

Acquired or congenital TMJ mobility impairment. It may be a consequence of hematogenous osteomyelitis as a result of umbilical sepsis, rheumatoid disease, trauma and is characterized by heterotopic bone formation and fusion of articular surfaces.

Treatment

Treatment for TMJ can range from conservative dental and medical treatments to complex surgical procedures. Depending on the diagnosis, treatment may include a short course of anti-inflammatory, analgesic and muscle relaxation drugs, special mouth guards / records / splint therapy, consultation of medical specialists on psychological problems and stress.