Temporomandibular Joint (TMJ) Disorders

What are temporomandibular joint disorders?

Temporomandibular joint disorders are pain caused by the inflammation or irritation of muscles or ligaments around jaw joints. TMJ occurs around age 20 to 40 and is more common in women. 

 

Causes include:

  • Dental procedures
  • Motor vehicle accidents (MVA)
  • Teeth grinding/clenching
  • Dislocation of the disc between the ball and socket joint
  • Arthritis in the temporomandibular joint
  • Stress
  • Acute trauma
  • An improper bite

What does a TMJ disorder feel like?

Symptoms include:

  • Jaw pain, headaches, toothaches, and earaches
  • Pain in the neck or shoulders
  • Difficulty opening mouth wide
  • Jaws that “lock” in the open or closed-mouth position
  • Clicking, popping, or grating sounds in the jaw joint when opening or closing your mouth
  • Difficulty chewing
  • Tinnitus, or ringing in your ears
  • Changes in teeth alignment
  • Swelling on the side of your face
  • Constant headache 
  • Dizziness associated with headache 

How can a TMJ disorder be treated?

Non surgical treatments include:

 

  • Hot or cold packs
  • Jaw, head, and neck exercises 
  • Breathing exercises, relaxation, meditation 
  • Posture correction 
  • Massage therapy 
  • Physiotherapy 
  • Stretching exercises 
  • Eating soft foods as they are easier on the jaw
  • Medications
  • Wearing a splint or a nightguard
  • TENS
  • Acupuncture
  • Ultrasound