TMJ: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment Options

If you've ever experienced pain in your jaw that extends to the ears or a difficulty in moving your jaw, you may have come across the term TMJ. TMJ stands for Temporomandibular Joint, which is the hinge connecting your jaw to the temporal bones of your skull. These joints are crucial as they allow you to talk, chew, and yawn. However, when something goes wrong with your TMJ, it can lead to a disorder known as Temporomandibular Joint Disorder (TMD).

What Causes TMJ?

The exact cause of TMJ disorders is often difficult to determine. The pain may be due to a combination of factors, such as genetics, arthritis, or jaw injury. Some people who have jaw pain also tend to clench or grind their teeth (bruxism), although many people habitually clench or grind their teeth and never develop TMJ disorders.

In some cases, the pain associated with TMJ disorders is due to the muscles that control jaw movement. Other times, it might be due to the parts of the bones that interact in the joint itself. Because the causes are varied, pinpointing the exact reason for TMJ-related discomfort can be a complex process that requires careful evaluation.

Recognizing the Symptoms of TMJ

The symptoms of TMJ disorders can be subtle or quite pronounced, and they can vary significantly from person to person. Common symptoms include:

• Pain or tenderness in your jaw

• 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

TMJ symptoms can also cause a clicking sound or grating sensation when you open your mouth or chew. However, if there's no pain or limitation of movement associated with your jaw clicking, you probably don't need treatment for a TMJ disorder.

TMJ can significantly impact your quality of life. The pain and discomfort can affect eating, speaking, and even sleeping. Some individuals find that their TMJ symptoms flare up during times of stress, which can create a cycle of discomfort and anxiety. This disruption to daily life can lead to further stress, continuing the cycle.

Dental Treatment Options for TMJ

When it comes to treating TMJ, there are several non-invasive dental treatment options available. These include:

• Oral splints or mouth guards (occlusal appliances): Often used for people who clench or grind their teeth, these devices can help alleviate joint pain and prevent further damage to your teeth.

• Dental work to balance the biting surfaces of your teeth, relieve a painful bite, or fix an uneven bite.

• Orthodontic treatment to balance the biting surfaces of your teeth or correct a bite problem.

• Surgery is typically seen as a last resort after all other treatment options have been exhausted.

Conclusion

TMJ disorders can be a significant source of discomfort and can impact your daily life. Understanding the causes, recognizing the symptoms, and being aware of the treatment options are your first steps towards managing this condition.

If you are experiencing symptoms of TMJ, schedule an appointment with our professionals at Towne Lake Family Dentistry in our Woodstock, Georgia, office. Call (770) 525-8581 to book an appointment today.