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TMJ disorders

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Temporomandibular disorders (TMD) are disorders of the jaw muscles, temporomandibular joints, and the nerves associated with chronic facial pain. Any problem that prevents the complex system of muscles, bones, and joints from working together in harmony may result in temporomandibular disorder. The National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research classifies TMD by the following: • Myofascial pain. This is the most common form of TMD. It results in discomfort or pain in the fascia (connective tissue covering the muscles) and muscles that control jaw, neck and shoulder function. • Internal derangement of the joint. This means a dislocated jaw or displaced disk, (cushion of cartilage between the head of the jaw bone and the skull), or injury to the condyle (the rounded end of the jaw bone that articulates with the temporal skull bone). • Degenerative joint disease. This includes osteoarthritis or rheumatoid arthritis in the jaw joint.

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The temporomandibular joints (TMJ) are the 2 joints that connect your lower jaw to your skull. More specifically, they are the joints that slide and rotate in front of each ear, and consist of the mandible (the lower jaw) and the temporal bone (the side and base of the skull). The TMJs are among the most complex joints in the body. These joints, along with several muscles, allow the mandible to move up and down, side to side, and forward and back.

In many cases, the actual cause of this disorder may not be clear. Sometimes the main cause is excessive strain on the jaw joints and the muscle group that controls chewing, swallowing, and speech. This strain may be a result of bruxism. Arthritis and displacement of the jaw joint disks can also cause TMD pain. In other cases, another painful medical condition such as fibromyalgia or irritable bowel syndrome may overlap with or worsen the pain of TMD.

Signs and symptoms of TMJ disorders may include: • Pain or tenderness of your jaw • Pain in one or both of the temporomandibular joints • Aching pain in and around your ear • Difficulty chewing or pain while chewing • Aching facial pain • Locking of the joint, making it difficult to open or close your mouth

• Various types of arthritis, such as rheumatoid arthritis and osteoarthritis • Jaw injury • Long-term (chronic) grinding or clenching of teeth • Certain connective tissue diseases that cause problems that may affect the temporomandibular joint

Treatment may include: • Resting the temporomandibular joint (TMJ) • Medicine or pain relievers • Relaxation techniques and stress management • Behavior changes (to reduce or stop teeth clenching) • Physical therapy • An orthopedic appliance or mouthguard worn in the mouth (to reduce teeth grinding) • Posture training • Diet changes (to rest the jaw muscles) • Ice and hot packs • Surgery

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