Temporomandibular Joint Disorder (TMJ)
TMJ or Temmporomandibular Joint Disorder is pain or malfunction at the point where the jawbone is attached. TMJ can have many symptoms, from clicking, to locking of the jaw, to headache, earache or even a feeling of tiredness in the face. TMJ can have as many causes as there are symptoms: arthritis, gnashing of teeth, injury, dislocation of cushioning material.
Depending on how severe the problem is, treatment may range from a change in habits and posture - not resting you chin in your hand - to an oral appliance at night, to pain injections or surgery.
Recently Answered
- Q What type of headache is associated with jaw and facial pain?
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A headache that's accompanied by pain in your jaw and facial muscles may be brought on by temporomandibular joint disorder, or TMJ. This condition occurs in the joint that connects the jaw to the side of the head. People who have TMJ frequently complain... Full Answer
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- Q If my jaw pops or clicks, does that mean I have TMJ?
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Clicking and popping sounds can be a symptom of temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorder. The TM joints are among the most complex joints in the body. Located on each side of the head, they work together to make many different movements, including a... Full Answer
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- Q What is temporomandibular disorder (TMD)?
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If you have frequent headaches, earaches, tender jaw muscles, dull, aching facial pain or feel like your jaw locks or strays to one side when you open your mouth, you could be suffering from TMD. These aches and pains may be related to the jaw... Full Answer
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- Q How does temporomandibular disorder (TMD) affect the body?
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One of the primary effects of temporomandibular disorders on the body is pain, soreness, or tenderness of the muscles used to chew, speak, and swallow. These disorders also may limit jaw movement and cause pain in other areas of the body, such as... Full Answer
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- Q How is temporomandibular disorder (TMD) diagnosed?
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A dentist can help identify the source of the pain with a thorough exam and appropriate x-rays to determine if it is TMJ. Often, the pain may be from a sinus problem, a toothache or an early stage of periodontal disease. But for some types of pain, the... Full Answer
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- Q What are the treatment options for temporomandibular disorder (TMD)?
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There are several treatments for TMJ disorders. This step-by-step plan from the National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research allows you to try simple treatment before moving on to more involved treatment. The NIDCR also recommends a “less... Full Answer
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- Q What causes temporomandibular disorder (TMD)?
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Trauma to the jaw or jaw joint may play a role in temporomandibular disorder, or TMD, but in most cases the exact cause of this disorder is unknown. Experts suggest that certain tasks, either mental (stressful situations) or physical (teeth... Full Answer
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- Q What are the symptoms of temporomandibular disorder (TMD)?
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If you have frequent headaches, earaches, tender jaw muscles, dull, aching facial pain or feel like your jaw locks or strays to one side when you open your mouth, you could be suffering from TMD. These aches and pains may be related to jaw joint, called... Full Answer
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- Q Should I talk to my doctor about my TMJ symptoms?
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Your dentist can best diagnose if you have TMJ and how to treat it. Part of the dental examination includes checking the joints and muscles for tenderness, clicking, popping or difficulty moving. Your complete medical history may be reviewed, so... Full Answer
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- Q What soft foods should I eat if I have temporomandibular joint disorder?
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Eating soft foods might decrease the amount of stress you put on your temporomandibular joint and allow it time to heal. Smaller foods are better so you do not have to strain your mouth to chew large chunks of food. Here are some tips on what kinds of... Full Answer
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