TMJ Treatment
The temporomandibular joint, or TMJ, is one of the complex synovial joints in the body. It is present on each side of the head and forms when the mandibular condyle (lower arch) articulates with the temporal bone of the skull. The TMJ encompasses several vital components, such as the condylar head of the mandible, the mandibular fossa, the articular eminence, the cartilaginous articular disc positioned between the fossa and condyle, ligaments, and the joint capsule enclosing the joint components.
Working in harmony with the surrounding masticatory muscles, the TMJ enables proper jaw movements and facilitates functions such as opening and closing the mouth, speaking, and chewing.
What Are TMJ Disorders?
TMJ disorders, also referred to as TMDs, are a group of conditions that affect the joint itself or the surrounding muscles. They possibly cause jaw clicking, facial pain, headaches, difficulty opening the mouth, ear symptoms like earache and tinnitus (ringing in the ears), and restricted jaw movements.
What Causes TMJ/TMDs?
Since TMJ comprises many vital structures, TMDs may arise from various causes. Here’s a list of factors contributing to these conditions:
Trauma
If you’ve experienced a whiplash accident or a direct blow to the face, the TMJ might be injured to differing extents, depending on the severity of the trauma.
Daytime Teeth Grinding
Bruxism, also known as teeth grinding, repeatedly exerts huge forces on the TMJ and surrounding masticatory muscles, potentially leading to a TMD over time.
Teeth Misalignment
Malocclusion may impact not only your appearance and smile but also your TMJ. Misaligned teeth can contribute to an uneven distribution of masticatory forces while chewing, increasing your chances of developing a TMD.
Arthritis
Some systemic conditions, like rheumatoid arthritis, affect multiple joints throughout the body, including the TMJ, causing recurrent inflammation, pain, and resorption episodes. So, the joint can be affected in varying degrees based on the stage and severity of the disease.
Bad Chewing Habits
Certain chewing habits, such as chewing on hard objects like pencils or excessive gum chewing, may contribute to TMD, inducing recurrent joint strains.
Psychological factors
Recent studies suggest a correlation between stress or anxiety and TMDs, assuming that emotional stress causes frequent muscular tension, which puts the patient at high risk of developing TMDs.
How is TMJ/TMD Diagnosed? How Do I Know If I Have TMJ or TMD?
Given the diverse range of causes, diagnosing TMJ disorders requires the expertise of a skilled dentist. Precision Dentistry of Olympia cares for each patient by taking a full medical history and performing a comprehensive intraoral examination. This approach helps our team pinpoint the primary cause and tailor the ideal treatment plan.
During your first visit to our office, Dr. Xu will perform a comprehensive physical assessment and examine your teeth, jaw, face, and masticatory muscles to determine if you have a TMD. Here’s what you can expect during the exam:
Gentle Palpation
Our team employs gentle manual palpation to assess the health of the TMJ and surrounding structures, evaluating for signs of muscular tension, swelling, or any abnormalities.
Assessing Your Jaw Movements
During your exam, we will perform functional assessments to determine if you have difficulty opening your mouth or restricted jaw movements.
Imaging
Taking high-quality radiographs is very important for cases with TMDs since these images provide a detailed overview of the health of bones, cartilage, and adjacent soft tissue structures—some imaging modalities, such as CT. MRI, and TMJ arthroscopy, may be needed to confirm the diagnosis.
How Are TMJ Disorders Treated?
Managing TMDs is challenging, as there’s no singular cause for all cases. After a comprehensive exam, our team will better understand the contributing causes of your condition. Next, we will craft a personalized treatment plan that best suits your case. Here’s what you can expect during your TMD treatment:
- Medications
In certain cases, over-the-counter drugs are necessary to relieve pain and reduce inflammation or swelling. These medications include painkillers, NSAIDS, and muscle relaxants. However, you should consult with your dentist to avoid any side effects. - Lifestyle Modification
If you have adopted the habits of grinding your teeth, chewing on hard objects, or chewing gum excessively, you should modify your lifestyle and break these habits to maintain the health of your TMJ. - Nightguards
If you’re experiencing teeth grinding while sleeping, you may need a nightguard, which helps reduce excessive pressure on teeth and TMJ. - Physical Therapy
Whether you develop restricted jaw movement or difficulty opening your mouth, jaw exercises and stretches are beneficial in enhancing jaw mobility while reducing muscular tension and joint stiffness. - Surgical Intervention
In cases with severe TMJ disorders or those resistant to traditional non-surgical treatments, some surgeries, such as arthrocentesis, arthroscopy, or open joint surgery, are indicated in order to either repair or replace damaged joint structures.
Precision Dentistry of Olympia transcends the ordinary dental office. We focus on your overall health and goals. For those who appreciate dental care that prioritizes a holistic strategy, minimal intervention, and biological harmony, become part of our patient family and experience dentistry on your terms.
If you think you may be suffering from TMJ, contact us today to schedule an evaluation with us. Our caring and compassionate dentist will review your symptoms and discuss potential treatment options through our general family dentistry services, if necessary. Your treatment will vary depending on the severity of your condition; it can include simple lifestyle changes, jaw and facial relaxation exercises, a mouth or night guard, or jaw surgery. If you have any questions about TMJ treatment, please call us today at 360-995-0025 to schedule a consultation.
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