We frequently take our jaw’s flawless functioning for granted in the hustle and bustle of our daily lives. We don’t know how important this joint is to our health until we experience pain.

This brings us to the intricate world of Temporomandibular joint disease or TMJ disorder. It is a disorder that affects the temporomandibular joint, which connects the jaw bone to the skull. Pain in the jaw, face, or ears, a clicking or popping sound in the jaw, and difficulty eating or opening the mouth are all signs of this condition.

Some Statistical Facts:

• TMJ disorder is a relatively common condition, affecting up to 10% of the population.
• TMJ disorder affects women more than men.

This disorder is often a self-limiting condition, meaning that it will improve on its own over time. However, for some people, the symptoms can be severe and persistent. In these cases, a medical examination may be necessary. To manage TMJ disorder effectively, it is important to understand its causes and treatment options.

What is TMJ disorder?

Temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorder is a condition affecting the temporomandibular joint, which is the hinge joint that connects the lower jaw (mandible) to the skull. It enables movements like talking, chewing, and yawning. When this joint and its surrounding structures become disrupted or damaged, it can lead to TMJ disorder.

Causes of TMJ disorder

The exact cause of TMJ disorder is often unknown, but there are a number of factors that may contribute to its development, including:

• Injury to the jaw or face: TMJ disorder can be caused by an injury to the jaw or face, such as a blow to the chin or a whiplash injury.
• Stress: Stress can cause the muscles in the jaw to tense up, which can lead to TMJ pain.
• Arthritis: TMJ disorder can also be caused by arthritis, which is a condition that causes inflammation and pain in the joints.
• Teeth grinding: Teeth grinding, also known as bruxism, can put additional stress on the TMJ joints, which can lead to TMJ disorder.
• Malocclusion: Malocclusion, or a bad bite, can also contribute to TMJ disorder.

Symptoms of TMJ disorder

TMJ disorder symptoms vary from person to person, but the following are some of the most common:

• Pain in the jaw, face, or ears: The pain associated with TMJ disorder can range from mild to severe. It may be felt in the jaw, face, ears, or temples.
• Clicking or popping sounds in the jaw: TMJ disorder can cause the TMJ joint to make clicking or popping sounds when the mouth is opened or closed.
• Difficulty chewing or opening the mouth: TMJ disorder can make it difficult to chew or open the mouth fully.
• Headaches: TMJ disorder can also cause headaches.
• Neck pain: TMJ disorder can also cause neck pain.

Treatment options for TMJ disorder

There are a variety of treatment options available for TMJ disorder, depending on the severity of the symptoms and the underlying cause. Some common treatment options include:

• Self-care measures: Mild symptoms of TMJ issues can be relieved by measures such as administering heat or cold to the afflicted area, eating soft foods, and avoiding chewing gum.
• Over-the-counter pain medication: Pain relievers like ibuprofen or acetaminophen can also be used to treat mild to moderate TMJ problem symptoms.
• Prescription medication: Medication, such as muscle relaxants or anti-inflammatory medicines, may be required to alleviate the more severe symptoms of TMJ dysfunction.
• Mouth guards: The TMJ joints and teeth can both be protected by using mouth guards, known as occlusal splints.
• Physical therapy: Physical therapy can help to strengthen the muscles in the jaw and improve the range of motion in the jaw joints.
• Surgery: Surgery is rarely necessary for TMJ disorder, but it may be recommended if other treatments have been unsuccessful.

Conclusion

Understanding TMJ disorder (TMJD) enables people to seek proper therapy and make informed oral health decisions. Those suffering from TMD can improve their jaw function and overall well-being by understanding the reasons, identifying symptoms, and researching the many treatment options. It is important to always get personalised advice and treatment suggestions from a dental healthcare expert.

If you are experiencing any of the symptoms of TMJ condition, you should consult a doctor or dentist at complete smiles dental clinic to acquire a diagnosis and discuss treatment options.

Malavi Sivakanesan

Malavi Sivakanesan is the co-Founder & Operations Director at Complete Smiles in Harrow, Greater London. She is responsible for establishing the Complete Smiles brand throughout the United Kingdom and Europe and has 5 successful practices under her strong leadership.

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