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 medications help treat temporomandibular disorders (TMD)?
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You can use medicine to relieve the pain of a temporomandibular disorder (TMD). Short-term use of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), narcotics, muscle relaxants or antidepressant medicines can relieve or reduce inflammation, control pain... Full Answer
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- Q What should I think about if I have physical therapy for TM disorders?
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Do not begin physical therapy and jaw exercises to improve jaw range of motion until your doctor has determined what type of TM joint problem you have and what jaw structures are affected. Full Answer
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- Q What are the risks of physical therapy for TM disorders?
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Any therapy that involves physical movement of the jaw may make joint problems worse. And this therapy must be done by an experienced professional. Full Answer
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- Q How effective is physical therapy for TM disorders?
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Physical therapy is important to the success of both surgical and nonsurgical treatments for TMDs. Full Answer
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- Q Why may I need physical therapy for TM disorders?
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Physical therapy: Is frequently used in combination with medicine, such as nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs or muscle relaxants. May be recommended if symptoms are not relieved with home treatment and are related to muscle tension. Is used... Full Answer
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- Q How are temporomandibular disorders (TMD) diagnosed?
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Diagnosis is an important step before treatment. Your dentist will check the joints and muscles for tenderness, clicking, popping or difficulty moving. Your complete medical history may be reviewed, so it’s important to keep your dental office... Full Answer
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- Q What causes temporomandibular disorders (TMD)?
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The causes of TMD are not always easy to diagnose. Your dentist can best help diagnose the problem. Some TM problems result from arthritis, dislocation or injury. All of these conditions can cause pain and dysfunction. Muscles that move the joints are... Full Answer
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- Q How does stress affect temporomandibular joint disorder (TMJ)?
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Stress can trigger as well as aggravate temporomandibular joint disorder, or TMJ. High levels of stress can cause you to unconsciously clench your teeth and tighten your jaw muscles, creating added pressure and strain in the joints and... Full Answer
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- Q What should I expect after having physical therapy for TM disorders?
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After a physical therapy session, you should rest the jaw, try to control habits that cause jaw pain and avoid chewing foods that stress the joint. Full Answer
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- Q How do the temporomandibular joints (TMJ) work?
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Two joints and several jaw muscles make it possible to open and close the mouth. They work together when you chew, speak or swallow. They include muscles and ligaments, as well as the jaw bone -- the mandible (lower jaw) with two joints called the... Full Answer
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