TMJ: Symptoms, Treatment, and Prevention

The temporomandibular joint (TMJ) is the hinge joint that connects your lower jaw to your skull. It is a complex joint that is made up of the following parts: the lower jawbone (mandible), the temporal bone of the skull, and the muscles and ligaments that surround and support the joint. TMJ disorders can cause a variety of symptoms, and treatment options vary from nonsurgical approaches.

Symptoms of TMJ

TMJ disorders can cause a variety of symptoms, which can range from mild to severe. 

Here are the top common symptoms of TMJ:

1. Pain in your jaw, face, neck, or shoulders

2. Popping, or grating sounds in your jaw

3. Difficulty chewing or opening your mouth

4. Headaches and dizziness

5. Earaches

If you experience any of these symptoms, you should see your dentist or doctor to get a proper diagnosis.

Other symptoms include clicking or popping sounds when moving the jaw, difficulty chewing, and swelling on the side of the face. In some cases, TMJ disorders can also cause headaches and dizziness. If you think you may have a TMJ disorder, it's important to see your dentist or doctor so they can diagnose and treat the condition. If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, it is important to see your dentist or doctor as soon as possible. TMJ disorders can be treated, but the longer you wait to seek treatment, the more difficult the condition may become to treat.

Treatment Options

There are a variety of treatment options available for TMJ disorders, both surgical and nonsurgical. The most conservative approach is typically tried first, and then more invasive options may be considered if necessary.

Nonsurgical approaches to treating TMJ disorders include changes in diet, stress management, and the use of oral appliances. Diet changes may involve eating softer foods or avoiding foods that require a lot of chewing. Stress management techniques such as relaxation exercises or biofeedback may help to reduce clenching or grinding of the teeth. Oral appliances, such as mouth guards or splints, can be worn at night to prevent tooth damage from bruxism, or to keep the jaw in a comfortable position.

If nonsurgical approaches do not relieve symptoms, surgery may be an option. Surgery for TMJ disorders is usually only considered when more conservative treatments have failed and the person has severe pain or impairment of jaw function. There are several different types of surgical procedures that can be used to treat TMJ disorders, depending on the individual case. These procedures may involve modifying or repairing the joint itself, correcting bite problems, or releasing muscles and ligaments around the joint.

Prevention

Prevention is always better than cure and this is especially true when it comes to TMJ disorders. Regular dental checkups can help identify any potential problems early on so that they can be treated before they become more serious. Eating a healthy diet and avoiding trigger foods can help reduce the pain associated with TMJ disorders. Exercise and good posture help maintain muscle balance in the jaw, while reducing stress can help prevent clenching or grinding of the teeth.