TMJ & TMD Treatment

Overview

Temporomandibular Joint Disorder & Orofacial Pain

Chronic headaches and temporomandibular disorders (TMD) is a complex problem in medicine. This arises from the problems that can be linked to masticatory function. Patients must be diagnosed so the correct treatment can be selected. This is to effectively manage TMD and orofacial pain disorders.

At ARID, our approach to diagnosis starts with a complete review. We assess multiple factors which relate to TMD. We also assess factors relating to orofacial pain disorders. Our treatments are based on sound scientific principles. Emphasis will be placed on diagnosis. This is to ensure the correct therapy will be selected for each patient.

Our team includes both dental and medical specialties. Both in the management of orofacial pain. In addition, patients are screened for snoring and obstructive sleep apnea syndrome.

Causes

Causes of TMJ Disorder / Syndrome

It is important to first explain that a “syndrome” is simply a collection of symptoms. Whereas a “disorder” is the actual condition.

Research has shown many factors may lead to this disorder – TMJ dysfunction (TMD). It can occur by itself or be a part of a more complex problem.

Statistics indicate the majority of TMJ disorders are caused by trauma.

There are 2 types of trauma;

1. Macro-Trauma: sustained from a major injury to the jaw joint
2. Micro-Trauma: from a low-grade, repetitive injury.

At ARID we believe TMJ dysfunction is multifactorial. Some of the causes can include:

• Automobile accident
• Sports injury
• Clenching and grinding of the teeth known as “bruxism”
• Systemic diseases
• Neuromuscular imbalances
• Inflammation of the joint
• Rheumatoid arthritis – osteoarthritis (degenerative)
• Developmental abnormalities

Joint Disease & TMD

Another common cause is the displacement or dislocation of the disk. This disk is located between the jawbone and the socket. This disk can also develop a hole or perforation. This can produce a grating sound with joint movement.

TMJ disorders can occur if:

• The disk erodes or moves out of its proper alignment
• The joint’s cartilage is damaged by arthritis
• The joint is damaged by a blow or other impact

The muscles which stabilize the joint can become fatigued from overwork. This is caused by continual clenching and grinding of the teeth.

Signs and Symptoms

Signs And Symptoms of TMD

Signs and symptoms of TMJ disorder vary. They can be very complex to identify. Often the symptoms involve more than one of the TMJ components. These include muscles, nerves, tendons, ligaments, bones, jaw joint and connective tissue. People with TMJ problems generally experience one or more of the following symptoms:

• Chronic recurring headaches
• Clicking, popping or grating sound in the jaw joints
• Ear aches, congestion or ringing ears
• Limited jaw opening or locking
• Dizziness
• Pain when chewing
• Neck and/or throat pain
• Difficulty in closing the teeth together
• Tired, tight jaws
• Pain behind the eyes
• Scalp tenderness
• Swallowing difficulty
• Pain in the tongue, gums or cheek muscles
• Teeth grinding or clenching