TMJ

Where exactly are the TMJs located? And what causes dysfunction?

Stress, Misalignment, and Other Factors That Can Trigger A TMJ Disorder

Although stress might not cause a TMJ disorder on its own, it certainly exacerbates symptoms.

Dental Misalignment

When the upper and lower jaws do not meet properly, it can place a huge amount of stress on the TMJs.

Injury or Arthritis

A jaw injury can substantially affect TMJ function. Arthritis can also contribute to a TMJ disorder.

Are TMJ disorders very common?

*According to the National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research.

So How Can I Prevent Symptoms From Worsening?

Stress Management

TMJ disorders tend to flare up during times of stress, so many patients find relaxation techniques such as meditation and yoga to be beneficial.

Don’t Chew Gum

Chewing gum activates the muscles that become inflamed by TMJ disorders, spurring the cycle of clenching and grinding. Consider sticking to softer foods as well.

Proper Posture & Stretching

Take care to massage and carefully stretch the muscles around the jaws. Remember that poor posture, tight shoulders, and a stiff neck can also contribute to the condition.

How is a TMJ disorder diagnosed?

Diagnosing TMJ disorders can often be done simply by discussing your symptoms. Your doctor will also examine your teeth and jaw, checking for signs of grinding and tender areas.

In some cases, further testing, such as magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scans, will be conducted to check for damage to the soft cartilage that cushions the TMJs.

Can the problem be fixed?

Modern TMJ Disorder Treatments Are Even More Effective

Oral Appliances

Also known as occlusal splints, dental splints, or bite guards, oral appliances are worn during sleep. These customized devices improve alignment and prevent teeth from grinding.

Orthodontics & Restorative Dentistry

Substantial misalignment may require braces, Invisalign®, or another type of orthodontic correction. Restoring worn teeth with dental crowns and replacing missing teeth can also help.

Injections & Other Medications

Some patients respond positively to BOTOX® therapy or steroid injections. Muscle relaxers, benzodiazepines, and other depressants might also be recommended.

Surgical Correction

Arthroscopy is a minimally invasive procedure that can remove damaged tissue within the jaw joint. In the most severe cases, total joint replacement might be needed.

 

Symptoms of TMJ Disorder

The complex jaw joints allow you to eat, talk, yawn, and perform a variety of other daily activities. Temporomandibular joint disorder (TMJ disorder or TMD) refers to a group of conditions which involve these joints, the lower jaw, and the surrounding muscles. The most common symptoms of TMJ disorder include pain, tightness, clicking or popping, and restricted jaw movement. However, there are several other symptoms connected to TMD which can affect the entire body. If you are concerned about the health of your jaw, speak to a dentist about your treatment options.

Understanding Your Symptoms

There are a variety of symptoms which can indicate an issue with your TMJs. TMD often causes pain and discomfort, which may be temporary or last for years. Some patients only experience symptoms on one side of their face, while others deal with issues in both joints. Periods of stress may exacerbate these effects.

Pain and Discomfort

Typically, the most obvious sign of TMD is jaw pain. However, pain can radiate from the jaw and affect other parts of your body, including the:

• • Cheeks

• • Ears

• • Temples

• • Neck

• • Shoulders

• • Back

Toothaches, headaches, and migraines can all be associated with temporomandibular issues. You may experience pain while moving your jaw to eat, speak, or yawn. In many cases, patients notice an aching feeling or tenderness in the joints or other areas of the face.

Popping and Clicking Sounds

Periods of stress may exacerbate the effects of TMJ disorder.

Many patients with TMJ disorder notice unusual sounds while eating, talking, or opening their mouths. These sounds may take the form of popping, clicking, or grinding. In some cases, noises are accompanied by pain or a grating sensation, but oftentimes they are painless. Keep in mind some noise is quite common and may not indicate TMD. However, when popping or other sounds are accompanied by discomfort or limited jaw movement, it may be related to TMJ disorder.

Auditory Issues

Some patients experience changes in their hearing. Buzzing or ringing in the ears, often accompanied by earaches, may indicate issues with the TMJs. Typically, these symptoms are accompanied by pain in the jaw joints.

Restricted Jaw Movement

TMJ disorder can also impact your ability to move your jaw comfortably.  Patients with TMD may struggle to fully open their jaw or experience limited mobility which prevents their jaw from moving in certain directions. Muscle spasms, lockjaw, and jaw dislocation can also indicate issues with the TMJs.

Other Symptoms

There is a range of other symptoms which can signal TMD, such as:

• • Blurred vision

• • Difficulty chewing

• • Dizziness or vertigo

• • A suddenly uncomfortable bite

• • Swelling on the side of the face or in the temple area

If you do not have localized jaw pain, your doctor may look for another potential cause before screening for TMJ disorder.

TMJ FAQs

TMJ is an acronym which stands for temporomandibular joint. The temporomandibular joint is located just in front of the ear on either side of the head. When inflammation or injury affects this joint, it is known as temporomandibular disorder (TMD) or temporomandibular joint disorder. Characterized by jaw pain as well as a variety of other symptoms, TMJ disorder is a complex condition which varies from patient to patient.

What is the difference between TMJ and TMD?

TMJ refers specifically to the joint situated in front of the ear which allows the jaw to move up and down, front to back, and side to side. TMD stands for temporomandibular disorder which encompasses several conditions related to the TMJs and the jaw. Sometimes, TMD is referred to as TMJ disorder or TM disorder.

The only way to determine if jaw clicking is caused by TMD is to consult your dentist.

Do popping jaw joints mean that I have TMJ disorder?

The answer is possibly. Popping in the jaw joints is a symptom of TMD. However, it has other possible causes. Many individuals experience intermittent clicking of the jaw joints, so on its own, popping is not a cause for alarm. The only way to determine if jaw clicking is caused by TMD is to consult your dentist. If you experience related symptoms, such as headaches or jaw pain, it is especially important to schedule an appointment.

Will TMD treatment stop my migraines and/or ringing ears?

There is a clear connection between chronic headaches, tinnitus, and TMD. However, while most patients experience relief of migraines and ringing ears after treatment, there is no way to guarantee a complete cessation of symptoms.

How long will I have to wear my TMD splint?

In general, you should not wear your TMD splint for more than six months as overuse can lead to other issues. Your dentist may recommend you wear the splint all the time or only at night. Your treatment will depend on the alignment of your jaw as well as the severity of your symptoms.

Why do some doctors condone neuromuscular dentistry, while others don’t support the philosophy?

Currently, neuromuscular dentistry is not recognized as a speciality by the American Dental Association (ADA). While there is research that suggests this method can provide relief for TMD sufferers, the efficacy of this treatment has not been concretely proven. Neuromuscular dentists believe they can achieve effective, long-lasting results by permanently realigning the jaw. Opponents of the philosophy say there is little scientific evidence to support the technique.

Will insurance cover neuromuscular diagnosis of TMD?

Typically, dental insurance will not cover the cost of neuromuscular diagnosis or treatment. However, medical insurance may cover a portion of your care. It is important to discuss your insurance coverage with your dentist or health care provider before beginning treatment to discover if you will receive coverage.

Once I’ve completed treatment and received a good bill of health, can TMD return?

Since the jaw joints are constantly moving and under stress, it is possible your symptoms could return. In some cases, the symptoms return even worse than they were before. Fortunately, your dentist or doctor can often treat recurring symptoms using similar methods.

What diseases have symptoms similar to TMD?

While TMJ disorder is commonly associated with symptoms such as headaches, popping jaw joints, and tinnitus, other conditions can cause these issues, such as:

• • Migraines or tension headaches

• • Giant cell arteritis

• • A broken jaw

• • Trismus

• • Meniere’s disease

Similar symptoms can also be related to cocaine abuse.

Can orthodontic patients wearing braces also wear an oral splint for TMD treatment?

Yes. Although not all orthodontists use this method, some practitioners offer a combination of braces and oral splints for faster treatment.

Can a sleep apnea splint or snore guard double as a TMD splint?

While in some cases a sleep apnea or snore guard can relieve the symptoms of TMD, you should never attempt to treat your condition yourself. In some cases, sleep apnea splints can actually worsen the symptoms of TMD. Always consult your doctor or dentist before using one device to treat another issue.

Are there exercises to help relieve TMD pain?

There are many different exercises that can help to relieve your jaw pain, such as:

• • Place your thumb below your chin and press lightly on the chin bone. Slowly open your mouth, working against the resistance from your thumb.

• • Place your tongue on the roof of your mouth and slowly open your jaw without moving your tongue.

• • Push down on your bottom teeth with one hand and, at the same time, push upwards with your jaw.

• • Cross your arms across your chest with one hand on each shoulder. Stretch your neck backwards and to the right. Then switch sides. This exercise helps to relieve related neck tension.

Your doctor, dentist, or physical therapist can recommend specific exercises based on your symptoms.

What habits contribute to TMD pain?

Many TMD patients suffer from chronic stress and anxiety, which can cause them to unconsciously clench their jaw or grind their teeth. These habits can exacerbate TMJ symptoms. Other harmful habits include frequent gum chewing, resting the chin in the hand, poor posture, yawning too wide, and chewing ice or pencils.

Can children develop TMD?

Yes. While TMD is much more common for patients in their 20s to 40s, children can suffer from the condition as well.

Can denture wearers develop TMD?

Yes. In fact, ill-fitting dentures frequently cause jaw pain and TMD. When patients wear false teeth that are too loose, they unconsciously try to bring them into alignment, putting constant strain on their TMJs. Additionally, it can take longer for denture wearers to chew up their food, meaning their jaw must move more than those who have natural teeth or dental implants.

A Medical Professional Can Provide Relief

TMJ disorders can be incredibly frustrating, but they are treatable. Many cases will not resolve without professional intervention. Speak with your doctor to day about the best way to stop your symptoms for good.