Uncategorized

Temporomandibular Joint Dysfunction Syndrome

Temporomandibular joint (TMJ) dysfunction syndrome is the name given to a range of disorders of the temporomandibular joint, the joint where the jaw attaches to the skull. The syndrome is characterized by facial pain, popping or clicking of the jaw, headache, problems with chewing, and incomplete range of motion of the jaw. The pain is often worse during chewing and when the mouth is open. The syndrome is relatively common, occurring in up to 10% of the population in the United States. It affects women about four times as often as men, and is most likely to affect young and middle-aged adults.

TMJ syndrome has many causes, and the treatment differs depending on the nature of the disease. Tension of the neck and jaw is a common cause, often leading to clenching and grinding of the teeth and to tension headaches. Other causes include misalignment of the upper and lower jaw, poor posture, traumatic injury, arthritis, displaced disks, degenerative bone disease, inflammation of connective tissue, and cancer.

TMJ syndrome is diagnosed via physical examination by a doctor, dentist, or oral surgeon. It involves checking the bite, the range of motion of the jaw, and the state of the teeth (to check for grinding). The medical practitioner will also take a medical history, and ask about sources of stress. If damage to the bone or soft tissue is suspected, X-ray or MRI scanning may be performed.

Conservative treatment involving stress reduction (relaxation exercises, meditation, deep breathing) is usually successful in alleviating the symptoms of TMJ syndrome. Some patients will benefit from physical therapy or psychological counselling. Medications which have been used successfully include anti-inflammatory painkillers, muscle relaxants, and antidepressants. Placement of mouth guards may be necessary for people who grind their teeth at night if the stress reduction therapy is unsuccessful. Surgery is occasionally necessary, especially for patients with chronic TMJ syndrome due to displaced disks or injury.