TMJ Disorders

According to the National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research (NIDCR), temporomandibular joint disorders (TMJ)—also called temporomandibular disorders (TMD)—are the most common source of chronic facial pain and jaw dysfunction. More than 10 million people in the United States are affected by TMJ problems.

What is the Temporomandibular Joint?

You have two temporomandibular joints that connect the left and right sides of your lower jaw to the temporal bone of your skull. These joints, along with their associated muscles, ligaments, and tendons, work together to allow your jaw to move up and down, front to back, and side to side. A soft, shock-absorbing disc sits between the rounded condyles of your lower jaw and the corresponding sockets in your skull, making chewing, speaking, yawning, and all jaw movements possible.

Because the TMJ performs both hinge-like and sliding motions, it's considered one of the most complicated joints in the body—and one of the most challenging to treat when problems arise.

Types and Symptoms of TMJ Disorders

TMJ disorders can fall into one or more of these three categories:

Myofascial pain – Pain in the jaw joint area due to increased muscle tension and spasm

Internal derangement – Displacement of the disc, jaw dislocation, or trauma to the condyles of the jaw

Degenerative joint disease – Arthritis affecting the joint

You're at greater risk for developing a TMJ problem if you grind your teeth (bruxism), have experienced a jaw injury, or have arthritis such as rheumatoid arthritis or osteoarthritis.

Symptoms vary widely from person to person and may include:

• Jaw pain or tenderness
• Popping, clicking, or grating sounds with jaw movement
• Jaw locking or limited movement
• Earaches or ringing in the ears (tinnitus)
• Headaches
• Neck and back pain
• Vertigo
• Muscle spasms

For some people, a TMJ disorder resolves within a relatively short time. For others, it may persist despite extensive therapy.

Diagnosis and Treatment

At Smile Care Dental Group, we perform a thorough clinical assessment of your joint symptoms and function. We'll order special imaging and diagnostic tests as needed to understand what's causing your discomfort.

Treatment may include:

• Oral appliances such as night guards or stabilization splints to relieve strain on the joints
• Occlusal adjustments to improve your bite
• Orthodontic or prosthodontic treatment to correct alignment issues
• Steroid injections for inflammation
• Surgery in cases of persistent, serious TMJ problems

Self-Care at Home

We'll guide you through self-care methods that can help alleviate symptoms:

• Eat soft foods
• Avoid extreme jaw movements like wide yawning and gum chewing
• Practice stress reduction and relaxation techniques
• Apply ice packs or moist heat as directed
• Perform gentle stretching exercises if recommended

Over-the-counter anti-inflammatory drugs and pain medications may provide relief. If not, we can prescribe stronger pain relievers, anti-inflammatory drugs, muscle relaxants, or other medications as needed.

If you're experiencing jaw pain, clicking, or any TMJ symptoms, we're here to help you find relief.