Temporomandibular Joint Disorder

TMJ is a very unfortunate joint disorder, which can cause many different symptoms. TMJ technically stands for temporomandibular joint syndrome. It is also sometimes referred to as a disorder, rather than a syndrome. The joints specifically affected by TMJ are critical for your jaw to move, and also connect the lower jaw to the skull.

While normal, everyday aches and pains are common, it is not normal to experience chronic pain and suffering. This usually means that there is an underlying problem, which needs treatment. TMJ is unique in this case, because your jaw is a complex joint that is connected to many other places in your body. This means that pain and discomfort in your jaw, can often lead to problems throughout your body.

This means
that sometimes pain is being experienced in another part of the body, and one would not think to look for a dental issue, as the root cause (pun intended).

TMJ Symptoms

There is quite a long list of symptoms that those with TMJ can suffer from, and the following list is by no means definitive.

Problems chewing Lack of jaw mobility Jaw tenderness Jaw spasms Locking in jaw joint Popping or clicking sounds in your jaw Pain in jaw A bite that is uneven Teeth feel uncomfortable when mouth is closed Jaw slides when opening mouth

Head Pain Related To TMJ

One of the biggest issues with TMJ, is serious head pain. This can manifest in a number of ways. The following is a list of common problems associated with head pain.

Cluster headaches Issues with balance Dizziness Earaches Hearing issues Stuffy or clogged ears Unexplained ear pain Forehead pain Facial swelling Facial pain Scalp that is overly sensitive

Other Pain Related To TMJ

Numbness in arms and fingers Pain in your back Shoulder or neck pain

Causes Of TMJ

There can be multiple causes of TMJ, but they are very often hard to determine.
Jaw injuries, arthritis, or even genetics, can play a role. Grinding one's teeth, or clenching teeth is also frequently common, but many who grind or clench their teeth never develop TMJ.

Risk Factors For Developing TMJ

Injuries to your jaw Different forms of arthritis Clenching or grinding of teeth Tissue-related diseases

Treatment For TMJ

TMJ sometimes goes away without any treatment. However, if you experience persistent symptoms, doctors may recommend multiple treatment options, sometimes simultaneously.

Medications

Medications are often used as nonsurgical options for TMJ, as they often relieve the pain associated with the disorder.

Anti-inflammatories are the most commonly used medications, when looking to treat TMJ symptoms. The most popular of these options are NSAIDs, such as ibuprofen (typically sold as Motrin or
Advil).

Muscle relaxants are sometimes used to help with pain related to TMJ symtpoms, but they are only used very sparingly.

Pain relievers are another option, for more serious cases of TMJ symptoms, and are always prescribed by a doctor.

Therapies

There are also a few non-drug options, when it comes to treating TMJ symptoms. This can include physical therapy, mouth guards, and oral splints. These therapy options include ultrasound, ice and heat, and jaw exercises (which may help strengthen the appropriate muscles).