A Brief Look at TMJ Disorders and Their Treatment - What Patients Ought to Know
TMJ disorders involve the temporomandibular joints which are located in front of the ears where the lower and upper jaw meets. There are many types of TMJ disorders and there are also many possible causes.
TMJ Disorder Causes
The following have been known to contribute to TMJ disorders.
Teeth Grinding
People who grind their teeth are at a greater risk for TMJ disorders. This is due to an increase in the amount of wear that takes place on the cartilage.
Misaligned Teeth
Misaligned teeth, also called malocclusion, are another common factor cited in the onset of TMJ disorders. If you grind your teeth or have misaligned teeth, you should work with your dentist to correct the problem to lessen your chances of developing a TMJ disorder.
Other Causes
Trauma to the jaw as well as certain repetitive activities can also contribute to TMJ disorders.
Symptoms of TMJ Disorders
The symptoms of TMJ disorders include dizziness, headache, pain in the ears, and sounds such as clicking, popping, or ringing. Once diagnosis is made through an evaluation of the symptoms and diagnostic testing which might include x-rays or an MRI, treatment can begin.
Treatment of TMD
The following are common treatments for TMJ disorders. The treatment to be used on you for your TMJ disorder will be determined by several different factors, which is why it is important to discuss your case with your dentist.
Resting the Jaw
This may include treatment to halt grinding as well as avoiding chewing gum and certain foods that require strenuous chewing.
Hot or Cold Compresses
Depending on the stage and type of a particular TMJ disorder, either hot or cold therapy may be advised.
Medication
Medication may include anti-inflammatory medications, muscle relaxers, or cortisone shots.
Other Treatments
Other treatment options include correcting malocclusions, physical therapy, stress management and surgery. The course of treatment the dentist recommends will be based on the patient’s history, severity of symptoms, and other factors.