Not many of use are aware of the importance of the temporomandibular joint (TMJ), until it stops functioning properly. The question is what is TMJ? Temporomandibular joint is the jaw joint that connects your lower jawbone to your skull and allows you to move your jaw easily. When this joint is damaged, it leads to TMD or Temporomandibular Joint Disorder. TMJ is just the name of a body part whereas TMD is the name of the disorder. Henceforth, in this article, we will be referring to the correct term for the disorder i.e. TMD.

Certain habits like clenching and grinding your teeth can cause pain and discomfort in TMD. If you experience an injury to your neck or jaw, then you may be at an increased risk of TMD. Let’s take a look at TMD signs and symptoms that will help you identify the problem before it becomes severe.

What Causes TMD?

Injury to your jaw, the temporomandibular joint, or muscles of your head and neck, and certain harmful habits can cause TMD. The problem may also be caused due to hormonal and hereditary disorders. Other possible causes of TMD includes:

  • Teeth grinding or clenching
  • Osteoarthritis or rheumatoid arthritis
  • Tightening of facial and jaw muscles due to mental stress
  • Dislocation of the soft disc between the ball and socket of your joint

TMD Symptoms

Muscle Pain

TMD can cause muscle tension in the head, face, neck, and inside of the mouth and can lead to

  • Headaches
  • Facial muscles pain
  • Neck muscle pain

Ear Problems

  • Ringing sound in the ears
  • Pain in the ears
  • Dizziness or heavy sensation in the ears

Unusual Joint Sounds

  • Clicking or popping sounds in the jaw while opening or closing the mouth that may or may not be associated with pain while chewing
  • Grinding sounds in joints

Limitation In The Movement of Joint

  • Not being able to open and close your jaw
  • Locking of the joint
  • Inability to move your jaw from side to side

Secondary Symptoms

  • Red eyes
  • Sinus issues
  • Discomfort in the cheeks and chin
  • Erratic tongue movements
  • Headaches
  • Acute laryngitis
  • Stiffened shoulders

Other signs of TMD

  • Damage on the biting surfaces of teeth
  • Enlargement of chewing muscles in the face, called as hypertrophy
  • Facial asymmetry-swelling on the side of the face.

There could be chances that some patients might not experience these symptoms and can suffer from TMD.

Treatment Options

The treatment options vary according to the causes of TMD. However, the  most common treatment option for TMD is a splint, which is also referred to as a night guard. A splint can help protect the teeth from harsh clenching and grinding forces. A splint can also help reduce the contraction of the muscles associated with clenching and grinding which in turn can help reduce the signs and symptoms of TMD.

Consult with our dental professionals if you observe any of the TMD signs and symptoms listed above.

Posted in Clinical Advice and Oral Health Tips