What are TMJ disorders?

November is TMJ Awareness Month, an initiative aimed at raising awareness about a complex set of conditions affecting the temporomandibular joint (TMJ). According to the TMJ Association, approximately 36 million Americans experience problems with their TMJ, with 90% of those being women of childbearing age. In recognition of TMJ Awareness Month, we’ll spend some time exploring what the TMJ is and what happens when problems arise. 

What is TMJ?

As noted above, TMJ stands for temporomandibular joint. Located in front of your ear on both sides, these joints are responsible for connecting your jawbone to your skull. Working together with several muscles and ligaments, they allow the jaw to move up and down, side to side, and forward and backward so you can do things like talk, eat and yawn. If your TMJ is misaligned or otherwise unable to work in sync with other muscles, you may have a temporomandibular disorder, or TMD. Note that the term “TMJ” refers only to the joint itself, whereas “TMD” refers to disorders of the TMJ.

What are the symptoms of TMDs?

While the exact cause of TMDs is still under research, the National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research has categorized these conditions into three classes: those that affect the joints, those that affect the chewing muscles and those that cause headaches. Several disorders fall into each class and your condition may fall into more than one class. 

If you have a TMD, you may experience symptoms like:

• Pain in your jaw.
• Pain that spreads to the face or neck.
• Stiff jaw.
• A locking or difficult-to-move jaw.
• Painful clicking, popping or grating in the jaw joint.
• Ringing in the ears, hearing loss or dizziness.
• A change in the way the upper and lower teeth fit together.

Note that many of these symptoms can also arise from conditions not associated with a TMD. It’s important to see your doctor or dentist for a proper diagnosis.

What treatments are available for TMD?

Treatments for TMD will vary depending on the severity of the condition. Sometimes, pain in the TMJ may resolve on its own with at-home care such as a soft food diet, a warm compress or over-the-counter pain relievers. If your symptoms are caused by teeth clenching or grinding, your provider may recommend a mouthguard. Your dentist or doctor may also consider offering prescription medications if deemed necessary. Surgery is considered a last resort.

If you think you may have a TMD, be sure to speak with your dentist for a proper evaluation of your symptoms and an accurate diagnosis. Give us a call or schedule online today.