Can TMJ disorders cause dizziness and vertigo. How common are these symptoms in TMJ patients. What are the most effective treatments for TMJ-related dizziness. When should you seek medical help for TMJ symptoms.

Understanding TMJ Disorders: A Comprehensive Overview

Temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders are a group of conditions affecting the jaw joint and surrounding muscles. These disorders, often referred to as TMDs or TMJDs, can significantly impact an individual’s quality of life. According to the National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research (NIDCR), approximately 12 million people in the United States suffer from TMJ disorders.

TMDs can be caused by various factors, including trauma, arthritis, genetics, and other underlying conditions. While they can be temporary, some cases may become chronic, requiring long-term management and treatment.

Common Symptoms of TMJ Disorders

• Pain in the jaw area
• Difficulty chewing or speaking
• Clicking or popping sounds in the jaw joint
• Headaches
• Facial or neck pain
• Jaw discomfort, stiffness, or soreness
• Ringing in the ears (tinnitus)
• Hearing loss
• Feeling that upper and lower teeth don’t fit together correctly

In addition to these common symptoms, many individuals with TMJ disorders also experience dizziness and vertigo. These symptoms can be particularly distressing and may significantly impact daily activities.

The Link Between TMJ Disorders and Dizziness

The connection between TMJ disorders and dizziness has been the subject of several studies in recent years. A 2018 report indicated that participants in various studies often reported tinnitus, hearing impairment, and vertigo along with their TMJ symptoms.

Why do TMJ disorders cause dizziness? While the exact mechanism is not fully understood, researchers have proposed several theories based on the anatomy of the TMJ area:

1. Poor positioning of the mandibular condyle (one of the joints in the TMJ) may trigger earache, tinnitus, and vertigo.
2. Sensitivity or hyperactivity in the chewing muscles can lead to contractions that cause dysfunction in the Eustachian tubes, potentially resulting in an imbalance and hearing loss.

How common is dizziness in TMJ patients? According to a 2014 research study, TMJ disorders could increase the chances of experiencing vertigo by 2.3 times. The study found that nearly 60% of participants with TMD also had vertigo, while 65% of participants with vertigo also had TMD. Moreover, 50% of the participants who experienced facial pain also reported vertigo. These findings suggest that dizziness is indeed quite common among individuals with TMJ disorders.

Distinguishing Between Dizziness and Vertigo in TMJ Patients

While often used interchangeably, dizziness and vertigo are distinct symptoms that TMJ patients may experience:

• Dizziness: A feeling of lightheadedness or imbalance
• Vertigo: A sensation of spinning or swaying

Both dizziness and vertigo can lead to nausea or vomiting, further complicating the patient’s condition. It’s important to note that the severity and frequency of these symptoms can vary depending on individual factors, such as underlying conditions or bone and muscle structure.

Risk Factors and Demographic Trends in TMJ Disorders

Are certain groups more prone to developing TMJ disorders? Research suggests that TMJ disorders are more common in women between 35 and 44 years old compared to men or women of other age groups. However, it’s important to note that TMJ disorders can affect individuals of any age or gender.

What factors might increase the risk of developing TMJ-related dizziness? While more research is needed, some potential risk factors include:

• History of jaw trauma or injury
• Chronic teeth grinding or clenching (bruxism)
• Arthritis in the TMJ
• Stress and anxiety
• Poor posture
• Genetic predisposition

Effective Treatment Strategies for TMJ-Related Dizziness

Given the complex nature of TMJ disorders and their associated symptoms, treatment often requires a multifaceted approach. Here are some effective strategies for managing TMJ-related dizziness:

Home Remedies for TMJ Disorders

• Eating softer foods (e.g., soups, steamed vegetables, fish)
• Applying heat or cold to the face while gently massaging and stretching jaw muscles
• Reducing habits like nail biting, gum chewing, and jaw clenching
• Taking over-the-counter pain medications (e.g., ibuprofen, aspirin, NSAIDs)

Home Remedies for Vertigo

• Sleeping with the head raised on multiple pillows
• Sitting on the bed before getting up
• Avoiding extending the neck or bending down
• Moving the head slowly during daily and physical activities

Medical Treatments for TMJ Disorders

• Prescription pain medications
• Antianxiety medications
• Antidepressants
• Antiseizure medications
• Acupuncture and transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (TENS)
• Arthroscopy (surgery to reposition the joint’s disks)
• Surgery to change teeth or facial anatomy in severe cases

Treatments for Vertigo

• Vestibular rehabilitation training (VRT)
• Medications like prochlorperazine and antihistamines

How effective are these treatments? The effectiveness of treatment can vary depending on the individual and the severity of their condition. Some patients may find relief with simple home remedies, while others may require more intensive medical interventions. It’s important to work closely with healthcare providers to develop a personalized treatment plan.

Emerging Treatments and Future Research Directions

As our understanding of TMJ disorders and their relationship to dizziness continues to evolve, researchers are exploring new treatment options. Some promising areas of investigation include:

• Oral appliances (e.g., mouth guards, occlusal splints, stabilization appliances)
• Dental procedures (e.g., teeth grinding, crowns, teeth positioning)
• Botulinum toxin (Botox) injections
• Specific injections into the TMJ area to trigger the body’s immune response for joint repair

While these treatments show potential, more research is needed to conclusively determine their effectiveness in treating TMJ-related dizziness. As research progresses, we may see new and innovative approaches to managing these complex disorders.

When to Seek Medical Help for TMJ Symptoms

When should you consult a healthcare professional about your TMJ symptoms? It’s advisable to seek medical attention if:

• Your jaw pain or tenderness is persistent and severe
• You have difficulty opening or closing your mouth completely
• You experience frequent episodes of dizziness or vertigo
• Your symptoms significantly impact your daily life or quality of sleep
• Over-the-counter pain medications and home remedies don’t provide relief

What type of healthcare provider should you consult? Depending on your symptoms, you may need to see:

• A dentist specializing in TMJ disorders
• An oral and maxillofacial surgeon
• An ear, nose, and throat (ENT) specialist
• A neurologist

These specialists can provide a comprehensive evaluation of your condition and recommend appropriate treatment options.

Living with TMJ Disorders: Coping Strategies and Lifestyle Adjustments

Managing TMJ disorders and associated symptoms like dizziness often requires long-term lifestyle adjustments. Here are some strategies that can help improve your quality of life:

Stress Management Techniques

• Practice relaxation techniques such as deep breathing, meditation, or yoga
• Engage in regular physical exercise
• Consider cognitive-behavioral therapy to manage stress and anxiety

Dietary Modifications

• Opt for a soft diet during flare-ups
• Avoid chewy or hard foods that may strain the jaw
• Stay hydrated to maintain joint lubrication

Posture Improvements

• Practice good posture to reduce strain on the jaw and neck
• Use ergonomic furniture and supports at work and home
• Consider physical therapy to address any postural issues

Sleep Hygiene

• Use a supportive pillow to maintain proper neck alignment
• Avoid sleeping on your stomach, which can strain the jaw
• Establish a consistent sleep schedule to promote overall health

How can these lifestyle changes impact your TMJ symptoms? While they may not eliminate symptoms entirely, many patients find that these adjustments can significantly reduce the frequency and severity of their TMJ-related discomfort and dizziness.

The Importance of Patient Education and Self-Care in TMJ Management

Understanding your condition and taking an active role in your treatment can greatly improve outcomes for TMJ disorders. Here are some key aspects of patient education and self-care:

Understanding Trigger Factors

Identifying and avoiding factors that exacerbate your TMJ symptoms can be crucial. Common triggers include:

• Excessive gum chewing
• Biting nails or other objects
• Clenching or grinding teeth
• Poor posture, especially while using electronic devices
• Stress and anxiety

Self-Monitoring Techniques

Keeping a symptom diary can help you and your healthcare provider identify patterns and tailor your treatment plan. Consider tracking:

• Pain levels and location
• Frequency and duration of dizziness episodes
• Activities or foods that seem to worsen symptoms
• Effectiveness of different treatments or coping strategies

Compliance with Treatment Plans

Adhering to your prescribed treatment regimen is crucial for managing TMJ disorders. This may include:

• Consistently wearing oral appliances as directed
• Performing prescribed exercises or stretches
• Taking medications as prescribed
• Attending follow-up appointments with healthcare providers

How does patient education impact treatment outcomes? Studies have shown that well-informed patients who actively participate in their care tend to have better outcomes and improved quality of life when managing chronic conditions like TMJ disorders.

The Role of Interdisciplinary Care in Managing TMJ-Related Dizziness

Given the complex nature of TMJ disorders and their associated symptoms, an interdisciplinary approach to care can often yield the best results. This may involve coordination between various healthcare professionals, including:

• Dentists or oral surgeons specializing in TMJ disorders
• Neurologists
• Ear, nose, and throat (ENT) specialists
• Physical therapists
• Pain management specialists
• Mental health professionals

How does interdisciplinary care benefit patients with TMJ-related dizziness? By addressing all aspects of the condition – from jaw mechanics to neurological factors to psychological impacts – this approach can provide more comprehensive and effective treatment.

Case Conferences and Collaborative Treatment Planning

In complex cases, healthcare providers may conduct case conferences to discuss patient care and develop collaborative treatment plans. This ensures that all aspects of the patient’s condition are considered and that treatments are coordinated for maximum effectiveness.

Integrated Care Pathways

Some healthcare systems are developing integrated care pathways for TMJ disorders. These standardized, evidence-based approaches to diagnosis and treatment can help ensure that patients receive consistent, high-quality care across different healthcare providers and settings.

What are the potential benefits of integrated care pathways? They can lead to more efficient diagnosis, reduced treatment delays, improved patient outcomes, and potentially lower healthcare costs.

The Future of TMJ Disorder Research and Treatment

As our understanding of TMJ disorders and their relationship to symptoms like dizziness continues to grow, new avenues for research and treatment are emerging. Some promising areas of investigation include:

Advanced Imaging Techniques

Researchers are exploring the use of advanced imaging technologies, such as high-resolution MRI and 3D imaging, to better understand the structural and functional aspects of TMJ disorders. These techniques may lead to more accurate diagnoses and targeted treatments.

Genetic Research

Studies are underway to identify genetic factors that may contribute to the development of TMJ disorders. This research could potentially lead to new preventive strategies and personalized treatment approaches.

Regenerative Medicine

Scientists are investigating the potential of stem cell therapies and other regenerative medicine techniques to repair damaged TMJ tissues. While still in early stages, these approaches hold promise for treating severe cases of TMJ disorders.

Neuromodulation Techniques

Researchers are exploring various neuromodulation techniques, such as transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) and vagus nerve stimulation, as potential treatments for TMJ-related pain and dizziness.

How might these advancements impact patients with TMJ disorders? As research progresses, we may see more effective, personalized treatment options that can better address the complex symptoms associated with TMJ disorders, including dizziness and vertigo.

In conclusion, while TMJ disorders and their associated symptoms like dizziness can be challenging to manage, ongoing research and advancements in treatment offer hope for improved outcomes. By staying informed, working closely with healthcare providers, and taking an active role in their care, patients with TMJ disorders can often find effective ways to manage their symptoms and improve their quality of life.

Dizziness from TMJ Disorders: Causes and Treatments

Temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders are common and affect many people. You may experience many symptoms, including dizziness.

According to the National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research (NIDCR), approximately 12 million people in the United States have TMJ disorders (TMDs or also referred to as TMJDs).

TMDs are a group of conditions that affect the jaw joint and the muscles that control jaw movement. These disorders can be temporary or become long-term or chronic.

Trauma, arthritis, genetics, and other factors can cause TMDs. Common symptoms you may experience include:

• pain in the jaw area
• difficulty chewing or speaking
• clicking or popping in the jaw joint when opening and closing the mouth
• headaches

Other symptoms that are not uncommon include vertigo or dizziness, hearing loss, and ringing in the ear.

This article explores how TMDs are related to dizziness and vertigo. It examines what causes these conditions, their frequency, and other symptoms. It also discusses potential treatments and when to contact a doctor.

A 2018 report states that participants in various studies often reported tinnitus, hearing impairment, and vertigo with TMDs.

According to research from 2014, scientists do not fully know why TMJ disorders can lead to vertigo. However, the anatomy of the bones, muscles, and joints in the TMJ area could be the reason.

The researchers said one possibility is the poor positioning of one of the joints, the mandibular condyle. This could trigger earache, tinnitus, and vertigo.

Another possibility is sensitivity or hyperactivity in the chewing muscles, which can lead to contractions that cause dysfunction in the tubes that connect the ear to the nose. This could lead to an imbalance and hearing loss.

Vertigo is a sensation of spinning or swaying, while dizziness is a feeling of lightheadedness or imbalance. They can both lead to nausea or vomiting.

TMDs can vary, especially if you have any underlying conditions or have a bone or muscle structure that increases your symptoms. They are also more common in women between 35 and 44 years old than men or women of other age groups.

Other symptoms of TMDs include:

• difficulty chewing
• pain or tenderness in the jaw joint, neck and shoulders, or in or around the ear when you chew, speak, or open your mouth wide
• jaw discomfort, stiffness, or soreness
• headaches
• ringing in the ears (tinnitus)
• hearing loss
• clicking sounds when you open your mouth wide or close it
• feeling that your upper and lower teeth don’t fit together correctly when you bite down
• facial or neck pain

According to the 2014 research mentioned above, scientists observed that TMDs could increase the chances of having vertigo by 2.3 times. In practical terms, nearly 60% of participants with TMD also had vertigo, while 65% of participants with vertigo also had TMD.

Moreover, 50% of the participants who experienced facial pain also reported vertigo.

This suggests that dizziness is quite common with TMDs.

Since there are not many studies on dizziness caused by TMDs, you can look at treating both simultaneously. Home remedies and medical treatments are available.

Home remedies

Home remedies for TMDs include:

• Eating softer foods, such as soups, steamed vegetables, and fish. You may want to avoid hard foods like beef jerky, deep-fried food, and hard snacks.
• Applying heat or cold to your face while gently massaging and stretching your jaw muscles.
• Reducing nail biting, gum chewing, and jaw clenching.
• Taking over-the-counter medications, such as ibuprofen, aspirin, and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs).

Remedies for vertigo include:

• sleeping with your head raised on multiple pillows
• sitting on the bed before getting up
• avoiding extending your neck or bending down
• moving your head slowly during daily and physical activities

Medical treatment

Medical treatments and procedures for TMDs include:

• pain medications, such as NSAIDs
• antianxiety medications
• antidepressants
• antiseizure medications
• acupuncture and transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (TENS)
• arthroscopy, or surgery to reposition the joint’s disk
• surgery to change your teeth or facial anatomy in cases of severe symptoms

Other treatments that may work but need more research to be conclusive include:

• oral placements, such as mouth guards, occlusal splints, and stabilization appliances
• dental procedures, such as grinding the teeth, using crowns, or changing your teeth positioning
• botulinum toxin (botox)
• specific injections into the TMJ area that trigger the body’s immune response to repair the joint

Medications that can help with vertigo include:

• vestibular rehabilitation training (VRT), which refers to exercises for people with dizziness to help with balancing
• drugs like prochlorperazine and antihistamines

Note:

If you take any of the above medications, speak with your doctor about how to take them and for how long. They can be addictive or lead to severe side effects.

Was this helpful?

If you’re experiencing dizziness or vertigo due to a TMD, talk with a doctor. Dizziness can be a symptom of many different conditions, so it’s crucial to have an accurate diagnosis and treatment plan.

A doctor may recommend lifestyle changes like avoiding certain foods or activities that could be causing your symptoms. They may also suggest physical therapy or other treatments. In some cases, surgery may be necessary to correct the underlying problem.

If you cannot completely open or close your jaw or have persistent pain, talk with a doctor or dentist. They can help you understand why it’s happening and how to treat it.

TMDs have a vast range of symptoms, including dizziness or vertigo. There are numerous ways to treat both conditions, including home remedies, medications, and surgery.

If you have any persistent pain or frequent episodes of dizziness, it is essential that you speak with a doctor or dentist. They can provide a proper diagnosis and determine if you have a TMD or an underlying condition.

Dizziness from TMJ Disorders: Causes and Treatments

Temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders are common and affect many people. You may experience many symptoms, including dizziness.

According to the National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research (NIDCR), approximately 12 million people in the United States have TMJ disorders (TMDs or also referred to as TMJDs).

TMDs are a group of conditions that affect the jaw joint and the muscles that control jaw movement. These disorders can be temporary or become long-term or chronic.

Trauma, arthritis, genetics, and other factors can cause TMDs. Common symptoms you may experience include:

• pain in the jaw area
• difficulty chewing or speaking
• clicking or popping in the jaw joint when opening and closing the mouth
• headaches

Other symptoms that are not uncommon include vertigo or dizziness, hearing loss, and ringing in the ear.

This article explores how TMDs are related to dizziness and vertigo. It examines what causes these conditions, their frequency, and other symptoms. It also discusses potential treatments and when to contact a doctor.

A 2018 report states that participants in various studies often reported tinnitus, hearing impairment, and vertigo with TMDs.

According to research from 2014, scientists do not fully know why TMJ disorders can lead to vertigo. However, the anatomy of the bones, muscles, and joints in the TMJ area could be the reason.

The researchers said one possibility is the poor positioning of one of the joints, the mandibular condyle. This could trigger earache, tinnitus, and vertigo.

Another possibility is sensitivity or hyperactivity in the chewing muscles, which can lead to contractions that cause dysfunction in the tubes that connect the ear to the nose. This could lead to an imbalance and hearing loss.

Vertigo is a sensation of spinning or swaying, while dizziness is a feeling of lightheadedness or imbalance. They can both lead to nausea or vomiting.

TMDs can vary, especially if you have any underlying conditions or have a bone or muscle structure that increases your symptoms. They are also more common in women between 35 and 44 years old than men or women of other age groups.

Other symptoms of TMDs include:

• difficulty chewing
• pain or tenderness in the jaw joint, neck and shoulders, or in or around the ear when you chew, speak, or open your mouth wide
• jaw discomfort, stiffness, or soreness
• headaches
• ringing in the ears (tinnitus)
• hearing loss
• clicking sounds when you open your mouth wide or close it
• feeling that your upper and lower teeth don’t fit together correctly when you bite down
• facial or neck pain

According to the 2014 research mentioned above, scientists observed that TMDs could increase the chances of having vertigo by 2.3 times. In practical terms, nearly 60% of participants with TMD also had vertigo, while 65% of participants with vertigo also had TMD.

Moreover, 50% of the participants who experienced facial pain also reported vertigo.

This suggests that dizziness is quite common with TMDs.

Since there are not many studies on dizziness caused by TMDs, you can look at treating both simultaneously. Home remedies and medical treatments are available.

Home remedies

Home remedies for TMDs include:

• Eating softer foods, such as soups, steamed vegetables, and fish. You may want to avoid hard foods like beef jerky, deep-fried food, and hard snacks.
• Applying heat or cold to your face while gently massaging and stretching your jaw muscles.
• Reducing nail biting, gum chewing, and jaw clenching.
• Taking over-the-counter medications, such as ibuprofen, aspirin, and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs).

Remedies for vertigo include:

• sleeping with your head raised on multiple pillows
• sitting on the bed before getting up
• avoiding extending your neck or bending down
• moving your head slowly during daily and physical activities

Medical treatment

Medical treatments and procedures for TMDs include:

• pain medications, such as NSAIDs
• antianxiety medications
• antidepressants
• antiseizure medications
• acupuncture and transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (TENS)
• arthroscopy, or surgery to reposition the joint’s disk
• surgery to change your teeth or facial anatomy in cases of severe symptoms

Other treatments that may work but need more research to be conclusive include:

• oral placements, such as mouth guards, occlusal splints, and stabilization appliances
• dental procedures, such as grinding the teeth, using crowns, or changing your teeth positioning
• botulinum toxin (botox)
• specific injections into the TMJ area that trigger the body’s immune response to repair the joint

Medications that can help with vertigo include:

• vestibular rehabilitation training (VRT), which refers to exercises for people with dizziness to help with balancing
• drugs like prochlorperazine and antihistamines

Note:

If you take any of the above medications, speak with your doctor about how to take them and for how long. They can be addictive or lead to severe side effects.

Was this helpful?

If you’re experiencing dizziness or vertigo due to a TMD, talk with a doctor. Dizziness can be a symptom of many different conditions, so it’s crucial to have an accurate diagnosis and treatment plan.

A doctor may recommend lifestyle changes like avoiding certain foods or activities that could be causing your symptoms. They may also suggest physical therapy or other treatments. In some cases, surgery may be necessary to correct the underlying problem.

If you cannot completely open or close your jaw or have persistent pain, talk with a doctor or dentist. They can help you understand why it’s happening and how to treat it.

TMDs have a vast range of symptoms, including dizziness or vertigo. There are numerous ways to treat both conditions, including home remedies, medications, and surgery.

If you have any persistent pain or frequent episodes of dizziness, it is essential that you speak with a doctor or dentist. They can provide a proper diagnosis and determine if you have a TMD or an underlying condition.

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Temporomandibular joint dysfunctions (TMJ) occupy a special place among diseases of the dental profile. This is due to its functional and anatomical features, as well as the complexity of the clinical picture and differential diagnosis. Joint pathology may resemble other diseases that are the responsibility of psychiatrists, otolaryngologists, neurologists and oncologists.

According to various sources, TMJ dysfunctions occur in 25-65% of the population, among boys and adolescents – in 15-30%. The prevalence of pathology is associated with a high load to which the joint is exposed during life. He is constantly involved in conversation, yawning, chewing, facial movements. In terms of strength, only the knee joint can compete with it. Another reason for frequent violations of the anatomical formation is the complexity of its structure.

The temporomandibular joint is the only paired joint in the human body, in which movements are carried out only synchronously. It is formed by the fossa and tubercle of the temporal bone above and the head of the mandible below. The anatomical formation is surrounded by the articular capsule, it is strengthened by the ligamentous apparatus. Movements in a healthy joint are carried out in three planes. Tendons and chewing muscles also take part in the work of the lower jaw. If all these structures function normally, a person does not experience pain and discomfort during her movements.

Disorders of the TMJ can be the result of pathology of the joint itself and masticatory muscles, congenital deformities of the occlusion and facial skeleton, as well as the consequence of improper treatment by the dentist.

The main causes of TMJ diseases

• Injuries (fractures of the facial bones and jaw, excessive opening of the mouth).
• The action of mechanical factors (eating coarse food).
• Endocrine, metabolic and systemic disorders.
• Infectious diseases.
• Physical and emotional stress.
• Bad habits (nail biting).
• Congenital defects of the maxillofacial apparatus.
• Inadequate dental treatment (dental filling, prosthetics, treatment with braces, etc.).

Symptoms of TMJ pathology

• Soreness and spasms in the muscles of the face.
• Clicking and crunching in the joint when chewing and yawning.
• Pain and ringing in the ears, hearing loss on the affected side.
• Swelling and redness of the skin in the area of ​​the joint.
• Enlarged submandibular lymph nodes.
• Joint deformity.
• Dizziness, headaches.
• General malaise, fever.

The most popular types of diseases of the temporomandibular joint

• Dislocation of the joint. It is characterized by a displacement of the head of the lower jaw relative to the temporal fossa. It can be one-sided or two-sided, front or back. The main cause of pathology is trauma. Dislocation is manifested by pain in the joint when opening the mouth, the inability to close the mouth. Other symptoms are slurred speech and excessive salivation.
• Internal disorders of the joint. Associated with displacement of the intra-articular disc and damage to the ligaments and joint capsule. A symptom of the disease is difficulty in jaw movements, accompanied by pain and clicks in the TMJ.
• Arthritis. An inflammatory disease that is characterized by pain and difficulty in jaw movements. Soft tissues in this area become edematous, the skin over the joint turns red. Local and general body temperature increased.
• Arthrosis. The disease is characterized by a protracted course with a gradual progression of the disease and deformation of the articular surfaces. To cure it, you should pay attention to the following symptoms in a timely manner: difficulty in lower jaw movements (stiffness, stiffness), which is accompanied by pain and crunching. The occurrence of arthrosis is provoked by inflammatory diseases and metabolic disorders.
• Musculo-articular dysfunction. The basis of the disease is a violation of the closing of the teeth, caused by malocclusion or trauma. A common cause of musculo-articular dysfunction is untimely or incorrect dental prosthetics, as well as inadequate orthodontic treatment. Other causes of the disease are endocrine and metabolic disorders, stress, bruxism. As a result of these processes, well-coordinated work and the correct anatomical ratio of the masticatory muscles and joint components are disrupted.
• Two variants of dysfunction are known: with and without painful sensations in the masticatory muscles. In the second case, the pain is unilateral and persistent. It can be localized in the parotid, buccal, temporal and other areas of the face and give to the teeth, ear, tongue, hard palate. The pain increases during chewing, head movements, hypothermia and is removed for a while after taking painkillers. Other symptoms include restriction in the movements of the lower jaw, a feeling of numbness, facial asymmetry, clicks when the joint works.

Treatment

In the event of joint dysfunction, seek immediate medical attention. Diseases of this group are treated by maxillofacial surgeons who have received appropriate training and experience in this field. If necessary, they involve other doctors – orthodontists, orthopedic dentists, psychotherapists, neurologists, otolaryngologists, general orthopedists.

If TMJ disease is suspected, it does not make sense to contact dentists in public institutions and private clinics. Specialists of this profile are engaged in the treatment of teeth and oral cavity and are not entitled to provide assistance to patients with joint diseases.

Before you trust a doctor who has taken up TMJ therapy, find out if he has the necessary diplomas and qualifications, how long he has been dealing with this problem and what are the results of his activities.

All disorders of the temporomandibular joint are treated comprehensively: specialists use conservative and surgical methods, including physiotherapy, neurological and psychotherapeutic treatment, surgical interventions, and various options for orthodontic correction.

For an accurate diagnosis and effective treatment, seek the help of an arthrologist.

What is TMJ dysfunction and what can be done about it?

Temporomandibular joints, compared to other joints in our body, are hardly subjected to the heaviest load. And the fact that we use them very often and there is no need to remember. Therefore, violations of the functions of these joints occur very often. Today we’ll talk about how these violations manifest themselves and what problems they can cause.

What is TMJ dysfunction?

There are two TMJs in humans, they are located on both sides of the head and connect the lower jaw with the temporal bone of the skull. Each joint consists of an articular head and a temporal fossa in which the head is located. The articular disc located between them reduces the friction force. The joint is set in motion by the muscles that are adjacent on all sides of it.

Under normal conditions, all elements work synchronously, at one point in time, therefore, when opening or closing the mouth, we do not hear any extraneous sounds. However, if the elements of the joint are displaced or damaged, the movements cease to be synchronous and TMJ dysfunction occurs. One joint or two can be affected.

Signs of TMJ dysfunction

There may be several of them:

• chewing muscles are constrained, this sensation intensifies in the evening;
• teeth do not seem to fit properly, as if they no longer fit together;
• aching pains appear in the facial area;
• pain also occurs in or around the ears;
• the patient cannot open his mouth wide.

Much less common are symptoms such as dizziness, neck pain, numbness in the fingers, pain in the arm or back.

What could be causing the problem?

Most often, the exact cause cannot be determined. Scientists prefer to believe that TMJ dysfunction occurs under the influence of several factors from this list:

• chewing muscles are overloaded;
• the patient is injured in the neck, head or jaw;
• osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis of the TMJ;
• the articular disc has shifted;
• malocclusion observed;
• lack of teeth in a row, due to which the load is distributed unevenly;
• a crown, prosthesis and even a filling were placed incorrectly;
• due to incorrect posture, the muscles of the neck and face are constantly tense;
• fibromyalgia (chronic musculoskeletal pain), certain autoimmune and connective tissue diseases.

TMJ dysfunction can sometimes be confused with other diseases. Therefore, it would be best to contact a dentist to conduct an examination and, if necessary, prescribe additional examinations.

How to treat?

The process of treating TMJ dysfunction will depend on the identified causes. In case of malocclusion, improperly installed structures, a dentist who has the necessary skills and knowledge in the field of gnathology helps.

If the patient suffers from bruxism (or involuntary grinding of teeth), a mouth guard is made and worn at night. This allows you to slightly reduce the load on the teeth and muscles.

Health problems are solved with medication, after examination by a doctor. For severe pain, analgesics may be prescribed.

To reduce the load, the patient is advised to give up solid food, relax the muscles of the face and neck with the help of special exercises, give up the bad habit of biting a pencil or nails.

If you experience pain, make an appointment with your doctor right away and until that appointment, follow a soft diet, take painkillers (no more than three days), and apply cold or warm compresses to the diseased areas.