TMJ Disorder: Causes, Treatments and When to See a Specialist
Do you experience jaw pain and stiffness? Does it affect your ability to swallow, chew, or talk? You may be experiencing the symptoms of temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorder.
This disorder affects the TMJ, the joint where the lower jaw attaches to the rest of the skull. This joint and the muscles that surround it are responsible for jaw movements. They open and close their mouths while chewing and talking.
Below, we take a closer look at TMJ disorder and the treatment options available.
Causes
This disorder can be the result of various causes, including:
- Trauma to the jaw
- Chewing hard
- Habitual clenching or grinding of teeth
- Stress
- A poor bite (i.e. malocclusion syndrome)
- Anxiety
- Injuries resulting from accidents
- Poor body mechanics and posture
- Overuse of the jaw e.g. while chewing gum, exercising, or biting nails.
It’s worth noting that TMJ disorder often develops over time. The symptoms of the condition may, therefore, not be immediately recognizable.
Signs and Symptoms
This disorder manifests with various signs and symptoms. These often include:
- Shoulder pain
- Jaw pain, especially in the area directly in front of the ears. The pain is often only felt when opening or closing the mouth
- Jaw pain when chewing or yawning
- Neck pain or stiffness
- Headaches
- Ear aches or a feeling of fullness in the ears
- Popping or clicking sounds when opening or closing your mouth
- Jaw tenderness or pain, especially in the morning
Diagnosis
It is important to have your symptoms evaluated by a healthcare professional in order to have a definitive diagnosis. Diagnosis of this condition often involves a discussion of your symptoms and a study of your jaw.
You may also be required to undergo various diagnostic tests, including:
- Dental x-rays
- MRI
- CT scans
In some cases, TMJ arthroscopy may be used to diagnose the condition. This involves the insertion of a small, thin tube into the joint space. An arthroscope (a small camera) is inserted into the tube to observe the area and aid in diagnosis. This procedure can also be used to release scar tissue or remove inflamed tissue from the area. This can help the jaw move without pain.
TMJ Treatment Options
There are various options for the treatment of this disorder. These include:
Administration of medications
These include muscle relaxants, pain relievers, anti-inflammatories, and tricyclic antidepressants. These medications help to ease symptoms and manage the condition. However, they may have undesirable side effects.
Therapies
These therapies don’t involve the use of drugs or surgical intervention. They include:
- Physical therapy – TMJ physical therapy involves manual treatment for the disorder. It involves the application of manual manipulation and exercises to strengthen and stretch the muscles surrounding the jaw. Treatments that may be applied include TENS (transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation) and ultrasound.
- Mouth guards or oral splints – these are inserted over the teeth. They help ease pain and strain.
- Counseling – this can help with the psychological aspect and changing behaviors that may worsen the symptoms associated with the disorder.
Surgical procedures
Surgical treatment is often used as a last option. Surgical procedures include arthrocentesis, a minimally invasive procedure used to remove inflammatory products and debris, and modified condylotomy, surgery on the mandible that aims to ease locking and pain.
Visit 360 Osteopathy for Manual Treatment of TMJ Disorder
Are you seeking a natural and holistic approach to the treatment of your condition? Don’t hesitate to contact us at 360 Osteopathy. Schedule an appointment for manual treatment and experience the many benefits of allowing your body to heal itself. Contact us now to book your appointment with a TMJ specialist. We’d be happy to address your inquiries.
