TMJ Disorders in Newton, KS
The temporomandibular joints connect the lower jaw to the temporal bone. These joints, along with their muscles, ligaments, and tendons, collaborate to facilitate oral functions like chewing, speaking, and yawning. The TMJ has a soft disc that acts as a shock absorber between the lower jaw and the temporal bone, enabling smooth movements in all directions. Because of its complexity, the TMJ is often regarded as one of the most difficult joints to treat when problems occur.
Various Kinds and Indications of TMJ Disorders
There are three categories in which TMJ disorders can be classified, as mentioned below:
- Myofascial pain manifests as discomfort in the jaw joint area due to increased muscle tension and spasms triggered by various factors.
- Internal derangement denotes a situation where the disc is displaced, the jaw is dislocated, or there is trauma to the condyles of the jaw.
- Arthritis is marked by degenerative joint disease.
If you grind your teeth or have bruxism for a long time, have had a jaw injury, or have certain types of arthritis like rheumatoid arthritis or osteoarthritis, you are at a higher risk of developing a TMJ problem. The symptoms of a TMJ disorder can vary greatly from person to person and may include earaches, ringing in the ears (tinnitus), headaches, back and neck pain, dizziness, muscle spasms, joint tenderness, jaw pain, popping or grating sounds when moving the jaw, jaw locking, and limited jaw movement. While some people may find relief from a TMJ disorder in a short period of time, others may continue to experience symptoms despite extensive therapy.
Diagnosis and Treatment
The dentist will thoroughly evaluate joint symptoms and function to assess for a TMJ disorder. If necessary, additional diagnostic tests, including special radiographic imaging, will be ordered. Treatment options may include oral appliances like night guards or stabilization splints to reduce strain on the joints. Other forms of therapy may involve steroid injections, occlusal adjustments, and orthodontic or prosthodontic treatment to improve teeth alignment. In severe cases, surgery may be recommended.
Self-care methods can help relieve TMJ disorder symptoms. Patients are advised to consume soft foods, avoid excessive jaw movements, practice stress reduction and relaxation techniques, and apply ice packs or moist heat as instructed. Gentle stretching exercises provided by the dentist or therapist should be followed if recommended. Over-the-counter non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs and pain medications may provide temporary relief. If these are ineffective, stronger pain or anti-inflammatory medications, muscle relaxants, or anti-depressants may be prescribed by the dentist or physician.