TMJ disorders occur as a result of problems with the jaw, jaw joint and surrounding facial muscles that control chewing and moving the jaw. These disorders are also referred to as TMJ syndrome, TMJ dysfunction or temporomandibular disorders (TMD).
What is the temporomandibular joint?
The temporomandibular joint (TMJ) is the hinge joint that connects the lower jaw (mandible) to the temporal bone of the skull, which is immediately in front of the ear on each side of your head. The joints are flexible, allowing the jaw to move smoothly up and down and side to side and enabling you to talk, chew and yawn. Muscles attached to and surrounding the jaw joint control the position and movement of the jaw.
What causes temporomandibular joint disorders?
The cause of TMJ disorders is not clear, but dentists believe it arises from problems with the muscles of the jaw or with the parts of the joint itself.
Injury to the jaw, temporomandibular joint or muscles of the head and neck – such as from a heavy blow or whiplash – can cause TMJ disorders. Other possible causes include:
- Grinding or clenching the teeth, which puts a lot of pressure on the TMJ
- Dislocation of the soft cushion or disc between the ball and socket
- Presence of osteoarthritis or arthritis in the TMJ.
- Stress, which can cause a person to tighten facial and jaw muscles or clench the teeth.
What are the symptoms of TMJ disorders?
People with TMJ disorders can experience severe pain and discomfort that can be temporary or last for many years. More women than men experience TMJ disorders and it is seen most commonly in people between the ages of 20 and 40.
Dr. Niket Patel of Smile Essential Dentist in Leicester has an interest in this area of dentistry. He has undergone advanced training on Occlusion from the world renowned DawsonAcademy. Here are some of the common symptoms of TMJ disorders:
- Pain or tenderness in the face, jaw joint area, neck and shoulders, and in or around the ear when you chew, speak or open your mouth wide
- Limited ability to open the mouth very wide
- Jaws that get “stuck” or “lock” in the open or closed position
- Clicking, popping or grating sounds in the jaw joint when opening or closing the mouth (which may or may not be accompanied by pain)
- A tired feeling in the face
- Difficulty chewing or a sudden uncomfortable bite, as if the upper and lower teeth are not fitting together properly
- Swelling on the side of the face.
Other common symptoms of TMJ disorders include toothaches, headaches/migraines, neckaches, dizziness,earaches, hearing problems, upper shoulder pain and ringing in the ears (tinnitus).
It is best if you visit the dentist to diagnose a TMJ disorder as many other conditions can cause similar symptoms to TMJ disorders – including a toothache, sinus problems, arthritis or gum disease your dentist will conduct a careful patient history and clinical examination to determine the cause of your symptoms and discuss any necessary treatment options to alleviate any discomfort.
If you attend Smile Essential Dentist in Leicester for regular Dental Health Checks, then you may have noticed that we check the health of your TMJ before we even check your teeth! So we can diagnose any areas of concern quickly and promptly.
