Temporomandibular (Jaw) Joint Disorders
Temporomandibular joint disorders encompass a group of conditions affecting the jaw joints and muscles that assist in chewing.
Scientific studies have shown that 20% to 30% of the population has this condition, with a higher prevalence in women.
Causes of temporomandibular joint disorders include:
- Acute trauma (sudden blow to the jaw or facial area)
- Chronic trauma (intentional or unintentional teeth clenching and/or grinding)
- Psychological stress
- Malocclusion (misalignment of teeth)
- Temporomandibular joint arthritis
- Tumors affecting the temporomandibular joint
Additionally, certain systemic diseases like rheumatoid arthritis and osteoarthritis can also cause discomfort in the jaw joints.
What Are the Symptoms of Temporomandibular Joint Treatment (TMD)?
- Pain and tenderness felt in front of the ears during daily activities such as talking, eating, or yawning
- Feeling as if the mouth will stay open or closed (locking sensation) during these activities
- Pain and spasms in facial muscles
- Clicking or grinding sounds coming from the jaw joint when opening or closing the mouth
- Pain spreading from the face to the head, neck, and shoulders
- Feeling unrested and fatigued upon waking up, sometimes waking up due to pain
- Ringing, buzzing, or dizziness in the ears
If you experience one or more of these symptoms, you should consult a specialist doctor regarding joint disorders.
How Is Temporomandibular Joint Treatment (TMD) Done?
Treatment is directed towards the underlying cause. The following methods may be applied individually or in combination:
Soft diet, avoiding wide mouth opening
Physical therapy
Intraoral occlusal splint applications (Occlusal splints are entirely different from night guards used to protect teeth. While night guards prevent damage like cracks caused by teeth grinding, occlusal splints have a healing effect on the jaw joint and chewing muscles.)
Activities to reduce stress
Combined use of anti-inflammatory, pain relievers, and muscle relaxants, sometimes even low-dose antidepressants
Adjustment of dental contacts
Replacement of missing teeth
Orthodontic treatment
Note: The information and recommendations on this page are for informational purposes only. Consult your doctor for diagnosis and treatments. For more detailed information about the process and treatments, you can contact our WhatsApp line for before and after visuals!