What is TMJ?
Temporomandibular joint disorder (TMJ) is a painful condition caused by problems with the temporomandibular joints, which connect the jawbone to the skull. TMJ disorders typically fall into three categories:
Myofascial pain
Pain or discomfort in the muscles that help control jaw function can result in chronic myofascial pain and soreness. Many people who grind their teeth (bruxism) develop myofascial pain from TMJ.
Internal derangement of the joint
Dysfunction of the temporomandibular joint itself is a possible indicator of a displaced disc, injury, or dislocated jaw.
Arthritis
Arthritis is a degenerative disorder that causes pain, discomfort, and inflammation in the joints.
What causes TMJ?
While doctors don’t currently know exactly what causes TMJ, there are several risk factors that raise your chances of developing this painful condition:
Stress
Stress and anxiety can cause chronic jaw clenching, which increases muscle tension and leads to TMJ.
Poor posture
Poor posture puts stress on your back and neck muscles, which can cause inflammation in your jaw.
Sex
Women between the ages of 18 and 44 are at a greater risk of developing TMJ than men.
Arthritis
This degenerative joint disease can cause pain, discomfort, and tension in your temporomandibular joints.
What are the symptoms of TMJ?
Some of the most common signs and symptoms of TMJ include:
- Jaw pain
- Sore jaw
- Headaches
- Difficulty chewing
- Tight jaw muscles
- Facial pain
- Popping or clicking sound when opening the jaw
- Earache
- Lockjaw
Most TMJ symptoms worsen during times of stress, especially if you frequently clench your jaw or grind your teeth.
How is TMJ treated?
In mild cases of TMJ, eating soft foods, reducing stress, and using ice packs to minimize inflammation can help relieve your symptoms. Other TMJ treatments include:
Anti-inflammatory medication
Many over-the-counter (OTC) anti-inflammatory medications can relieve TMJ pain by reducing inflammation around your temporomandibular joints and muscles.
Botox®
Injecting Botox directly into the muscles surrounding your temporomandibular joints temporarily freezes them, so you can finally relax your jaw and immediately relieve tension.
Stabilization splint
A stabilization splint is a dental device that helps correct your bite to alleviate pressure on your temporomandibular joints and muscles.
Surgery
In severe TMJ cases, a complete joint replacement to replace damaged or deteriorated joints that no longer function properly may be necessary.
For relief from TMJ pain, call Nusblatt Dental or schedule a visit online today.
