What is the function of the temporomandibular joint (TMJ)?
The temporomandibular joint (TMJ) comprise the two joints which connect your jaw with your skull. In particular, they comprise joints which rotate and slide to the left and right of each ear and comprise the mandible (the lower jaw) and the temporal bone (the sides and the base of your skull). The TMJs are among the most intricate joints found in the human body. The joints, as well as many muscles, allow mandible muscles to travel both up and down, side-to-side as well as forward and back. If the mandible and joints are aligned correctly muscles, smooth movements like chewing and talking, yawning and swallowing, be performed. If the structures (muscles ligaments, disc temporal bone, jaw bone) aren’t aligned, or synchronized in their movements there are a variety of issues that could occur.
What is temporomandibular disorders (TMD)?
Temporomandibular conditions (TMD) are conditions of the jaw muscles temporomandibular joints and the nerves that are associated with chronic facial pain. Any issue that blocks the complicated system of bones, muscles and joints from functioning in harmony could cause temporomandibular disorders.
The National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research categorizes TMD as follows:
Myofascial pain. It is the most commonly reported type of TMD. It causes pain or discomfort within the fascia (connective tissue that covers the muscles) as well as muscles that control the neck, jaw and shoulder function.
Internal deviation in the joint. This can be caused by a jaw that is dislocated or a displaced disk (cushion of cartilage between jaw’s head bones and skull) or damage on the condyle (the part of the jaw bone which articulates with the temporal bone).
Degenerative joint disease of the joint. This could be osteoarthritis, or rheumatoid arthritis of the jaw joint.
You may suffer from any of these conditions simultaneously.
What are the causes of TMD?
In many instances the reason for this disorder might not be obvious. The most common cause may be an excessive stress to the joint of the jaw as well as the muscles that control chewing and swallowing. This strain can result from bruxism. It is the regular grinding of teeth. But injury of the jaw neck or head could result in TMD. Arthritis and displacement of disks of the jaw joint can result in TMD discomfort. In other instances, another painful medical condition , such as IBS or fibromyalgia may be associated with or worsen the discomfort of TMD. A recent study conducted by the National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research identified the psychological, clinical, sensory genetic, and nervous system elements that can make a person more at chance for developing chronic TMD.
What is TMD Disorder – The symptoms and signs of TMD
These are some of the frequent symptoms and signs of TMD:
Jaw pain or soreness (often more prevalent in the morning or late in the afternoon)
Headaches
Eye pain that is spreading in the face, neck, shoulder, or back
Ringing in the ear (not result of an infection in the ear canal’s inner part)
Popping or clicking of the jaw
The jaw is locked
The mouth is not moving as much.
Grinding or clenching of the teeth
Dizziness
The teeth can be sensitive absent the existence of an oral health problem
A tingling or numb sensation can be felt in the fingers
Changes in the way upper and lower teeth are positioned together.
The signs and symptoms of TMD could be similar to those of other medical conditions or disorders. Visit a dentist or physician for a diagnosis.
What are the treatment options for TMD?
Your doctor will work out the most effective treatment based on:
What is your age?
Your general health and medical background
How well do you take specific drugs treatments, procedures, or treatments
How long is the condition anticipated to last?
Your opinion or choice
Treatment could include:
Resting the temporomandibular Joint (TMJ)
Medicines and pain relievers
Techniques for relaxation and strategies for managing stress
Changes in behavior (to decrease or stop teeth from clenching)
Physical therapy
A mouthguard or orthopedic device that is worn inside the mouth (to minimize grinding)
Posture training
Dietary changes (to relax jaw muscles)
Hot packs and ice
Surgery
