What is TMJ?

The temporomandibular joint (TMJ) is a joint that connects the jaw bone to the skull and is located just in front the each ear. It is a sliding ball and socket, it is one of the most complex joints in the body.

What are the sign of TMJ disorder?

• Noises associated with the movement of the jaw (clicking, popping, or crunching).
• Pain when the jaw is opened wide.
• Ear pain not related to ear infection or ear ringing.
• Clenching or grinding teeth.
• Limited mouth opening.
• Frequent headaches.

What cause TMJ disorders?

TMJ disorder may develop for any number of reasons:

• Lost or crooked teeth.
• Overbite.
• Malocclusion (teeth that fit together poorly).
• Head and neck injuries.
• Clenching or grinding teeth.
• Degenerative arthritis.

Treatment:

• If malocclusion is diagnosed, teeth may require restoration, crowns, or orthodontic treatment to correct and improve the bite.
• If grinding or clinching teeth diagnosed a splint may fabricated to fit the teeth and separate the upper and the lower teeth slightly, patient may be instructed to wear the splint at day time or only when sleeping.
• Relaxation and psychological consulting are important to relieve the stress and anxiety; physical therapy can help to exercise the jaw and relief any tension in the muscles, medication and ultrasound therapy can provide significant relief of symptoms for many patients.
• When arthritis is present, various procedures are performed to repair or replaced severe or perforated discs and smooth the bone surfaces.
• Only in small cases surgery is required to correct TMJ disorders.