General Information On Tmj Disorders And Their Treatments
Temporomandibular joint disorders, or TMJ disorders
, are a group of medical problems that involve the temporomandibular joint. This joint connects the lower jaw and the skull. Its located directly in front of the ear on each side of the head. Supported and surrounded by the jaw or chewing muscles, tendons, blood vessels, and nerves, the TMJ permits the closing and opening of the mouth with ease. This movement allows you to chew, talk, and yawn without pain.
Trauma, diseases like osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis and wearing of the cartilage can alter the natural movement of the jaw, placing a great amount of stress on the joints themselves and on their surrounding structures. Any alteration may result in the development of a variety of symptoms. Tenderness or pain in the jaw, pain in or around the ear, headache, aching facial pain, locking of the jaws, an uneven or uncomfortable bite and popping sounds during mouth opening are the most common complaints.
Bruxism, or teeth grinding, habitual jaw tightening or chewing and fractured jaws can change the height of the teeth and cause teeth misalignment. Dental problems and misalignment of the teeth, or malocclusion, can change the way you chew and bite, causing or perpetuating TMJ problems.
To diagnose a TMJ disorder, a clench test is administered by your dentist. Pain in the teeth or jaw when biting down suggests TMJ. Mold impressions of your bite and x-rays are obtained to examine the position of the joints and to identify any structural disorder of the joint or teeth.
A bite problem relating to tooth mobility, muscle pain or misalignment of teeth is usually corrected by dental restorations or orthodontic treatments. A cosmetic dentistry treatment may be necessary to balance the teeths biting surfaces. Dental implants, crowns, and veneers may be used to resolve the symptoms. A mouth guard may be recommended to protect your upper or lower teeth against teeth grinding. Jaw repositioners or splints may be worn for a period of time. The splint is adjusted until the bite problem and pain are resolved. To ensure that the upper and lower teeth come into contact properly without pain, an occlusal equilibration may be performed. This procedure involves reshaping of the teeths biting surfaces.
Your dental insurance may cover a fraction of the cost for TMJ treatments. Its best to check with your insurance company to determine which services are covered.
by: Penelope Stone
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