Temporomandibular Joint Disease

The temporomandibular joints are located in front of each ear and connect the jawbone to the skull, providing a range of movement and making chewing, yawning, talking and swallowing possible. TMJ, or Temporomandibular Joint Disease, occurs when movement of the joint on either side of the face is impaired or painful. Problems can happen to the ball or end of the jawbone (condyle), the socket (articular fossa) or the cartilage between the two.

Symptoms

• Symptoms of TMJ include pain in the jaw, neck and shoulders, limited jaw movement, stiffness or locking of the jaw, clicking or popping when the jaw is opened, and teeth displacement. Dizziness, changes in vision, and ear problems such as tinnitus, ear pain and hearing loss can also occur.

Causes

• Reasons for the disease include arthritis, infection, deformities present from birth, wear and tear on the joints, teeth grinding, stress, auto immune diseases, and misalignment of the teeth and jaw.

Diagnosis

• Physical exam and symptom check, x-rays, bite and range of motion tests, neurological tests, and CAT scan and/or MRI exams are all used to make a diagnosis of TMJ.

Treatment

• Medical treatment options for TMJ include anti-inflammatory medications to reduce inflammation, stronger medicines (such as codeine for excessive pain), custom made night guards, flushing the joints, and surgery.

Self-Care

• Self-care treatments for TMJ include resting the jaw, not yawning too widely, eating softer foods, warm compresses, and avoiding gum.