TMJ Problems And Treatments

TMJ (Temporomandibular Joint) disorder is a disorder that occurs in the jaw joint and surrounding muscles. It shows itself with symptoms such as jaw pain, limitation in jaw movements and ear pain. Early diagnosis and correct treatment are very important in the treatment of TMJ. If you have symptoms of TMJ, you should consult a dentist or maxillofacial surgeon.

Factors Causing TMJ Problems

• Stress: Stress can lead to muscle tension and teeth clenching, which can trigger TMJ problems.
• Teeth clenching and grinding: Unconscious clenching of teeth at night or during the day can cause TMJ problems by overloading the joints.
• Jaw traumas: Impacts to the jaw can cause damage to the joint.
• Structural disorders of the joint: Congenital or acquired joint problems can predispose to TMJ problems.
• Inflammation of the joint: Infection or autoimmune diseases can affect the joint, such as arthritis.

Symptoms Of TMJ Problems

• Jaw pain (may increase during chewing, talking)
• Limitation in jaw movements (inability to fully open or close the mouth)
• Ear pain (may occur because it is close to the jaw joint)
• Headache (especially in the temples and neck)
• Facial sensitivity (sensitivity to touch)
• Sound in the jaw joint (the mouth opening is opened up to a certain point, at some point the sound is heard and stopped)
• Clicking or locking in the jaw (felt when opening and closing the mouth)

Examination Methods

• Evaluation of jaw movements
• Checking muscle and joint tenderness by palpation
• Detailed examination of the joint with radiography (X-ray), MR or tomography

TMJ Treatment

TMJ treatment is determined according to the intensity and cause of the patient’s complaints. In general, the following can be applied:

• Medication: Painkillers, muscle relaxants and anti-inflammatories can be used.
• Physical therapy: Exercises are given to strengthen the jaw muscles and increase the movement of the joint.
• Mouth guards: Specially prepared mouth guards are used to prevent clenching and grinding at night.
• Heat or cold application: Hot or cold compresses can be applied to the joint to relieve pain.
• Dietary adjustment: Hard and difficult to chew foods should be avoided.
• Stress management: It is important to deal with stress with methods such as yoga and meditation.
• Surgical treatment: Surgical methods may be considered in cases that do not respond to other treatments or in cases with severe structural disorders.