What are Temporomandibular Joint Disorders and their Treatment?
The TMJ (temporomandibular joint) is a highly complex joint that connects the lower jaw to the skull, enabling us to perform basic functions such as speaking and chewing. Treatment for temporomandibular joint disorders encompasses a range of procedures aimed at addressing damage, pain, and functional losses in this joint and surrounding chewing muscles caused by factors such as trauma, teeth clenching and grinding (bruxism), genetic predisposition, or intense stress.
Who is it suitable for?
This is suitable for anyone experiencing problems with their temporomandibular joint (TMJ) or chewing muscles who exhibits the following symptoms:
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Those who experience restricted or difficult mouth opening, or hear clicking/friction sounds from the jaw when opening their mouth,
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Those who experience difficulty, fatigue, and severe pain while chewing,
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Those experiencing pain of unknown origin that radiates to the head, neck, ears, temples, and cheeks,
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Those who experience jaw locking or jaw dislocation problems,
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Patients who notice swelling and asymmetry (deformity) in their face due to joint problems.
How Does the Treatment Process Work?
Treatment for TMJ disorders is planned using a multidisciplinary approach, progressing from simple to complex depending on the source and severity of the problem.
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Detailed Examination and Diagnosis: The physician performs an examination of the temporomandibular joint and muscles. If deemed necessary, radiological imaging methods are used to identify structural abnormalities in the joint.
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Intraoral Appliance (Stencer) Application: To reduce pressure on the joint and prevent teeth grinding, custom-made thin, transparent dental plates or occlusal splints are prepared and given to the patient to use.
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Medical Treatment and Physical Therapy: Medication is initiated to relieve muscle spasms and joint inflammation. Simultaneously, the patient is advised to perform jaw muscle exercises and physical therapy techniques at home.
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Supportive and Advanced Treatments: If stress is at the root of the problem, psychological support or relaxation techniques to eliminate this factor are recommended. In advanced structural joint disorders that do not respond to conservative (protective) treatments, surgical procedures are used.
Points to Bear in Mind Before Treatment
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When experiencing pain or restricted movement in the jaw joint, avoid forcing the mouth open excessively while yawning or eating.
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It is crucial to inform the doctor during the examination, especially if there is a history of jaw/facial trauma or rheumatic joint disease.
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Habits that trigger pain, such as chewing gum, nail biting, pen chewing, or resting the hand on the chin, should be identified and addressed before treatment begins.
Post-Treatment Precautions
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Nutrition: During and after treatment, avoid foods that strain the joint, such as hard, sticky, and large bites (e.g., biting into a whole apple, eating hard nuts); food should be cut into small pieces and chewed evenly with both sides of the jaw.
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Appliance Use: Occlusal splints or clear aligners prescribed by the doctor should be used regularly and without interruption for the recommended duration and times.
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Exercises: Jaw exercises and hot/cold compress applications as indicated by the doctor should be performed regularly at home.
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Stress Management: For the treatment to be effective, daily life stressors that cause jaw clenching should be avoided, and relaxation techniques should be practiced.
1. I hear a clicking sound in my jaw when I eat or yawn; is this a symptom of an illness?
Yes. Clicking or popping sounds coming from the jaw joint when opening and closing the mouth are one of the first and most important signs that the disc inside the joint is shifting or beginning to deform. It absolutely requires a doctor’s examination.
2. Is surgery (surgical procedure) always necessary for the treatment of temporomandibular joint disorders?
Nee. De overgrote meerderheid van kaakgewrichtsaandoeningen kan succesvol worden behandeld met niet-chirurgische methoden zoals occlusale spalken, nachtbeugels, medicatie, stressmanagement en spieroefeningen. Chirurgische ingrepen worden alleen als laatste redmiddel ingezet in gevallen waarin de aandoening zeer vergevorderd is en de structurele schade onomkeerbaar is.
3. Are tinnitus or headaches normal in TMJ disorders?
This is quite normal. The temporomandibular joint (TMJ) is anatomically located very close to the ear. Excessive strain on the joint and chewing muscles can cause ear pain, tinnitus, buzzing, and severe tension headaches that radiate from the temples to the head.
4. My jaw suddenly locked or dislocated, what should I do?
If this happens, you should not try to close your jaw yourself by forcing it or applying external pressure. A wrong move on your own could damage the ligaments. You should consult an oral surgeon or dentist immediately.