The
Temporomandibular joint (TMJ) is the joint that connects the lower
jaw to the temporal bone of the
skull, which is immediately
in front of the
ear
on each side of your head. Muscles attached to and surrounding the
jaw joint control the position and movement of the jaw.
The cause of TMJ disorders is not clear, but we believe it
arises from problems with the muscles of the jaw or with the parts
of the joint itself.
Injury to the jaw,
temporomandibular joint or muscles of the head and neck - such as
from a heavy blow or
whiplash - can cause TMJ
disorders. Other possible causes include: Grinding or clenching
the
teeth,
which puts a lot of pressure on the TMJ, Dislocation of the soft
cushion or disc between the ball and socket, Presence of
osteoarthritis
or
rheumatoid arthritis
in the TMJ and Stress, which can cause a person to tighten facial
and jaw muscles or clench the
teeth.
Symptoms
Pain or tenderness in the
face,
jaw joint area, neck and shoulders, and in or around the ear when
you chew, speak or open your
mouth
wide.
Limited ability to open the
mouth
very wide.
Jaws that get "stuck" or "lock" in the open or closed
position.
Clicking, popping or grating sounds in the jaw joint when
opening or closing the
mouth
(which may or may not be accompanied by pain).
A
tired
feeling in the
face.
Difficulty chewing or a sudden uncomfortable bite, as if the
upper and lower teeth are not fitting together properly.
Other common symptoms of TMJ disorders include
toothaches,
headaches,
neckaches,
dizziness,
earaches, hearing problems, upper
shoulder pain
and
ringing in the ears
(tinnitus).
Treatments
Some basic, conservative treatments for
TMJ disorders include:
Apply moist heat or cold packs.
Eat soft foods.
Try
non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs such as
Ibuprofen.
Antidepressants,
when used in low doses, can also help to reduce or control pain.
Wear a splint or night guard.
Avoid wide opening and keep
yawning to a minimum.
Physiotherapy can be useful and
consider stress reduction therapy, including
biofeedback.
Surgery should only be considered in specific circumstances.
As surgery is irreversible, it is wise to discuss this
thoroughly with your specialist.
Learning relaxation techniques
to help control muscle tension in the jaw.
