TMJ

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TMJ

TMJ stands for temporal-mandibular joint – Temporal as in temple area of skull and Mandibular as in mandible, or lower jaw.  Aside from the two bones that meet there (the Joint), there is also cartilage, which buffers the bone structures and 5 muscles, which give strength to the jaw.  Pain can arise as a result of misalignment of the teeth, trauma, or excess muscle tension.

For most people, pain in the area of the jaw joint or muscles does not signal a serious problem. Generally, discomfort from TMJ Disorders is occasional and temporary, often occurring in cycles. The pain eventually goes away with little or no treatment. Some people, however, develop significant, long-term symptoms.

TMJ Disorders can cause:

• Headaches
• Earaches
• Trouble/soreness in opening and closing the mouth
• Clicking or popping of the jaw
• Pain in the jaw muscles
• Soreness in the area, sometimes extending to the face

Dental treatments for the condition can include replacing missing teeth, moving teeth, adjusting the bite, filling gaps between teeth, etc. There is no one solution that is right for all cases. Sometimes a plastic mouthpiece is used to prevent clenching or grinding that is contributing to the problem. If untreated and taken to extremes, surgery may be required to repair a badly damaged joint.