Is TMJ Serious?
TMJ dysfunction (TMD) is a condition resulting in discomfort and pain of the jaw joints, muscles, and ligaments. There are various causes for the issue, which can include grinding or clenching, jaw trauma, injuries, arthritis, and natural aging. The treatment used to address TMD depends on factors such as the severity and details of the patient’s specific case. Common treatments include medication, mouth guards, physical therapy, and in severe cases, surgery.
Types
The three different types of TMDs are listed below:
- Jaw joint disorders
- Chewing muscle disorders
- Headaches caused by TMD
Symptoms
The symptoms associated with TMJ dysfunction vary from patient to patient. Below is a summary of the most common symptoms:
- Jaw, neck, shoulder, or facial pain
- Stiffness of the jaw
- Difficulty opening or closing the mouth
- Jaw clicking or popping
- Migraines and chronic headaches
- Earaches and toothaches
- Ringing of the ears
- Misalignment or changes in the patient’s bite
Causes
TMJ dysfunctions are not caused by one single thing, but rather are 30+ different conditions that affect the jaw joints, ligaments, and surrounding muscles. These conditions can result in issues including jaw pain, headaches, and difficulty opening or closing the mouth.
While these conditions are sometimes referred to as TMJ, the acronym “TMJ” actually stands for the temporomandibular joint. TMD is used to describe temporomandibular joint dysfunction or disorders.
There are two temporomandibular joints, which are located on both sides of the face. These joints connect the lower jawbone to the skull and are just in front of the ears. The joints are necessary for performing routine movements such as yawning, singing, chewing, and speaking.
Below is a summary of common causes associated with TMJ disorders:
- Injury or trauma to the jaw, including a dislocation or break in the jaw
- Bruxism, or grinding the teeth and jaw clenching
- Jaw joint arthritis
- Malocclusion or teeth that are out of alignment
- High levels of ongoing stress
It is challenging to completely control the various factors that contribute to TMJ dysfunction. Specific habits and lifestyle choices do have the ability to trigger and worsen TMD. Below are habits that should be avoided due to the excessive force that is placed on the jaw joints:
- Using the teeth for opening or as a tool
- Poor posture adding pressure to the neck, shoulder, and facial muscles
- Constant gum chewing or frequently eating ice
- Chewing on objects other than food
- Taking large bites of food
- Clenching or grinding, which can occur while sleeping or during the day
- Sleeping on the hands or stomach
Risks and Complications
Various complications associated with TMJ dysfunction can include pain, chewing difficulty, headaches, and damage to the teeth. These factors can also be the result of other oral health issues, which can make it difficult to identify the specific cause of the symptoms. In some cases, it often takes time to find a treatment that is effective. It can also be a matter of trial and error based on what works best for the specific patient.
TMJ disorders are quite serious and can result in serious oral health issues if they are not treated in a timely manner. Call the office today if you are concerned about symptoms that could be associated with TMJ disorders. The team can complete an evaluation and work with you to create an effective treatment plan.