Understanding TMJ Disorders: Causes, Symptoms, and Effective Management Strategies

Did you know that most people with Temporomandibular Joint (TMJ) disorders do not know whether they have them or what exactly causes such disorders? TMJ disorders refer to various conditions that result in dysfunction and pain in muscles and jaw joints that regulate jaw movement. 

Researchers estimate that more than 10 million Americans are living with TMJ disorders. In most cases, the discomfort related to TMJ disorders is temporary and occasional and occurs in cycles. Although the pain may eventually disappear without or with minimal intervention, some individuals may develop long-lasting symptoms. The disorders result in tenderness and pain in the jaw joints and related ligaments and muscles. The common causes may include jaw injuries, teeth grinding, and arthritis.

Types of TMJ Disorders

Researchers have categorized TMJ disorders into three:

·         Myofascial pain

·          Internal joint derangement

·         Arthritis-related disorders

It is possible to experience one or more of the disorder categories simultaneously with other comorbidities, such as sleep disturbances and chronic fatigue syndrome, which have similar symptoms. The majority of people experience relatively mild types of TMJ disorders, with symptoms significantly improving or disappearing spontaneously in months or weeks. However, the disorders may result in long-lasting, debilitating, and persistent pain in some individuals.

Symptoms of TMJ

TMJ symptoms vary widely and may include:

·         Jaw pain

·         Stiffness in the jaws.

·         Difficulty opening or closing the mouth.

·         Facial pain.

·         Neck or shoulder pain.

·         Jaw popping.

·         Earaches.

·         Headaches.

·         Migranes.

Ways of Alleviating TMJ Disorder-related Discomfort

How can you manage TMJ disorders and attain a stage of comfort? To effectively combat TMJ discomfort, developing the correct diagnosis and establishing treatment goals is essential. The following are some of the tips you can use to manage TMJ disorders and alleviate discomfort.

• Physical therapy: Physical therapy improves joint functioning and manages the pain caused by the disorder. Although this therapy cannot completely fix complex joint issues, it is useful because it helps the affected person attain comfort. Dentists may advise using physical therapy in conjunction with splint therapy for the best results.
• Stabilization splint therapy: Your surgeon or dentist will fabricate a dental appliance that holds your jaws in position and fits over the teeth. This helps to guard your jaw joints and ensure the supporting structures of your teeth are free from damage.
• Self-care techniques: These include practices such as eating soft foods, applying ice packs, shunning extreme jaw movements, relaxation, and stress reduction techniques, and embracing gentle jaw relaxation and stretching techniques to manage the symptoms.
• Pain relievers: Short-term use of over-the-counter pain relievers should temporarily alleviate pain and relieve jaw discomfort. Your physician or dentist can only prescribe stronger pain medications, muscle relaxants, anti-inflammatory drugs, or antidepressants when necessary.
• Irreversible treatments include surgeries and implants, which professionals should administer. Sometimes, they can worsen the condition and permanently alter the bite. 

Do you think you have a TMJ disorder? Simple self-care techniques should help alleviate the symptoms and discomfort. If otherwise, you should ensure you receive further treatment that is conservative, reversible, customized to your specific needs, and based on a reasonable diagnosis. Call 252-335-2225 to schedule a visit with Dr. Jason B. Jones - 706 W. Ehringhaus Street - Elizabeth City, NC 27909.