Temporomandibular Joint Associated Problems

Is it a headache? There are many problems associated with the TMJ And There are many disagreements over how to treat it.

Pain in the TMJ Many complaints are made about Pain in the region – Referred pain From mastication muscles Neck Tooth pain (wisdom) earaches – Malocclusion Treatment: varies Shifting of the teeth Wear of teeth Loss of teeth

Pop goes the TMJ Popping, clicking, or grinding May or may not have pain May be accompanied by a “jumping” of the joint – Bilateral – Lateral – Treatment: Ultrasound/physical therapy or a splint

Disc Derangement Anterior displacement of the disc. Permanent damage may occur Treatment: Needs surgery

Subluxation A condition where a patient opens their mouth too wide and is unable to close. Condyle glides too far forward and cant get back. Treatment: Place thumbs on the occlusal surface of posterior teeth and with the index fingers on the inferior border of the mandible, pushing down while at the same time guiding the jaw slowly back into its posterior position

Bruxism Grinding Mostly done during sleep Over time may wear down teeth Causes sore and tired TMJ Treatment: Nightguard and/or tranquilizers

Arthritis Arthritis is the inflammation of the body joints Treatment: cortisone may give some relief but patients often still have pain.