TMJ Disorders, medically referred to as temporomandibular joint disorders, generalize the problems that affect the jaw joint. These problems may range from jaw pain to altered jaw joint movements. The jaw joint is located very close to and in front of the ear canal, and it links the jaw bone to the skull, close to the temple. There are several other terms that can be used to describe conditions similar to these disorders. Some of these terms include TMJ dysfunction, TMJ pain, and myofascial pain disorder. Causes of these disorders have been studied and are documented herein.

What are the primary causes of TMJ Disorders?

It is believed that TMJ disorders’ primary causes are multifactorial in that they are caused by more than a single factor. There are two main causation avenues that influence the development of these disorders. These causation avenues are the muscles working the joint and the joint itself. Problems with the muscles working the joint may be due to over activity of the jaw, which often leads to jaw straining or naturally increased sensitivity to pain. On the other hand, problems with the joint itself may be due to the wear and tear of the internal surfaces of the joint, certain types of arthritis (usually jaw-joint specific), or injury induced on the temporormandibular joint or its cartilage disc.

What is the process of treating TMJ disorders?

The treatment of TMJ disorders varies depending on the severity. For instance, mild disorders can often be treated by the administration of painkillers and muscle relaxers. Because there is enough evidence to suggest that stress plays a significant role in influencing the disorders, stress-reducing therapies have previously successfully been used as another form of treatment for mild forms of these disorders.

For chronic forms of TMJ disorders, such as those caused by arthritis, they may require more complex treatment processes. Surgical procedures can also be resorted to in the case that the disorder involved is persistent and severe. Other popular TMJ treatments include physiotherapy procedures, such as ultrasound and gentle jaw exercising. To avoid suffering from TMJ Disorders, it is advised that one avoids straining the jaw joint by allowing it regular rest.

Contact Dr. Levy for more tips on TMJ Disorders and how they can be treated.