Temporomandibular joint (TMJ) treatment is a corrective procedure that dentists use to try and ease the pain of the joint. The TMJ is located in front of the ears and on both sides of the head. These joints connect the lower jaw bone to the skull. They also enable facial movements like chewing, laughing, and talking. A TMJ disorder affects the surrounding ligaments, muscles, and joints. The normal functioning of these joints would be difficult and painful if you have a TMJ disorder.
The common signs of TMJ Disorders include:
- Unexplained dizziness
- A tired look on the face
- Changes in how the upper and lower teeth fit together
- Unexplained swelling on both sides of the face
- Pain or sensitivity of the teeth without a dental disease
- Grinding and clenching of the teeth
- Complex mouth movement, mainly while chewing
- Popping or clicking sounds of the jaw, mainly when opening and closing your mouth
- Locked jaw in closed or opening position
- Ringing or earaches in the ears that are not caused by an ear infection
- Sharp pain in the shoulder, back, and neck
- Unexplained and consistent headaches
- Pain in the jaw, particularly in the morning and afternoon
The leading causes of TMJ disorders include:
- Growth disorders
- Jaw problems present at birth
- Erosion of the TMJ joint
- Arthritis
Some of the surgeries that can treat TMJ disorders include open-joint surgery, arthroscopy, and arthrocentesis. Physical therapy and drugs like muscle relaxers and corticosteroids can also manage TMJ disorders.
