Jaw Joint Treatment
Temporomandibular Joint (TMJ) Treatment
Temporomandibular Joint Problems
The temporomandibular joint (TMJ) connects the lower jaw to the skull and functions like a hinge, allowing important actions such as swallowing, chewing, and speaking. Additionally, the TMJ can move in all three spatial directions.
TMJ problems can cause pain in various areas, including the jaw joint, muscles controlling jaw movements, and the head and neck regions. Identifying the exact cause of TMJ problems can be difficult.
While TMJ problems sometimes resolve on their own without treatment, they often require diagnosis and intervention by a specialist.
Causes of TMJ Problems
Painful TMJ problems can arise from a variety of causes:
Issues with the anatomical structures of the joint
Trauma or injury to the jaw or joint area
Inflammation in the cartilage of the joint
High levels of stress
Bite misalignments (orthodontic issues)
When Should You See a Specialist?
If you experience persistent pain or tenderness in your jaws or are unable to fully open and close your mouth, you should consult a specialist in TMJ disorders. Your doctor will provide you with information about the possible causes of your problem and the appropriate treatment.
Symptoms of TMJ Problems
Pain and discomfort in the jaws
Pain inside or around the ear
Difficulty and discomfort while chewing
Pain radiating to the teeth, face, head, inside the ears, neck, and shoulders
Jaw locking when open or closed
Difficulty opening and closing the mouth
Clicking sounds, especially during chewing
Risk Factors
Professions that increase stress levels, family problems, exam periods, financial problems, crowded teeth, bite issues, many missing teeth, and systemic diseases increase the likelihood of joint problems. TMJ issues are much more common in women aged 15-40.
Diagnosis and Evaluation
Your dentist may ask you for the following information:
When did the symptoms begin?
Have you had this issue before?
Have you experienced increased stress levels recently?
Do you frequently experience headaches, toothaches, or neck pain?
Are you taking any regular medications?
Additionally, your dentist may ask:
Is your pain constant or intermittent?
Is there anything that triggers your pain?
Do you hear any sounds when moving your jaw? If so, is the sound painful?
Do you have difficulty or limitations in opening your mouth?
Your responses will provide helpful information for diagnosis. If necessary, your dentist may request X-rays to examine your teeth and jawbones. If structural bone problems within the joint are suspected, a CT scan may be required. If there is suspicion of issues with the soft tissues (disc, cartilage, connective tissue, and muscles) in the joint, an MRI may be ordered.
Treatment
In some cases, TMJ problems resolve on their own without any treatment. If the symptoms persist, your dentist will offer various treatment options. Oral appliances, such as occlusal splints (oral splints), are frequently used in TMJ treatment.
However, their fabrication requires great precision, and an accurate diagnosis is crucial. Incorrect use can exacerbate the pain. These splints may be worn only at night or throughout the day, depending on the case.
Other treatments for TMJ disorders may include physical therapy, psychological counseling and education, medications, and surgical intervention if deemed necessary.
TMJ problems are much more common in women aged 15-40.
