TMJ Dysfunction

What is TMJ?

TMJ means Temporomandibular Joint. This joint connects the jawbone to the skull. TMJ facilitates all the movements of the jaw. And any kind of Dysfunction with the jaw, joints or the facial muscle can lead to pain and discomfort.  And they are referred to as temporomandibular disorders (TMD), TMJ dysfunction or TMJ syndrome.

                               

HOW DOES TMJ CAUSE EAR PAIN?

• Most of the ear pain in adults occurs due to TMJ dysfunction.
• TMJ ear pain may be continuous dull or sharp pain. The pain increases during jaw movements.
• This leads to pain in the joint in front of the ear.
• There are many theories which state the relation between TMJ and ear.
• First theory states that the chewing muscles are near to the muscles which insert into the middle ear causing pain in the ear.
• The second one states that the nerve supply from the TMJ has shown direct connections with the parts of brain involved with both hearing and interpretation of sound leading to pain.

                             

ETIOLOGY

 

• Parafunctional activity like Grinding teeth or clenching teeth or Bruxism, excessive gum chewing.
• Malocclusion
• Osteoarthritis
• Rheumatoid arthritis
• Trauma
• Psychological factors

SIGNS AND SYMPTOMS

• Clicking or popping sound which may or may not be accompanied with pain during jaw movements.
• Tinnitus is ringing or clicking sound near the ear or head when ear is not at all affected.
• Trismus which means inability to open mouth wide.
• Pain or tenderness surrounding temporomandibular joint.  

                                                                   

• Headache and dizziness which leads to nausea and vomiting.
• Swelling may also occur.

                                                        

• Women are at greater risk of developing TMJ disorder than men.

                                                                     

TREATMENT

• Correct diagnosis is required to detect the exact cause.
• Treatment is planned according to the diagnosis.
• Complete physical examination by the dental professional is essential.

                                                               

• Application of mild heat may reduce pain.

                                      

• Soft diet is recommended.
• Over the counter medications like painkillers and anti-inflammatory drugs are useful.
• TENS is transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation which utilizes low level electrical current to provide pain relief.
• Once pain is relived Jaw relaxation exercises are performed to retrain your jaw.

                      

                      

There are several treatment options available for treating TMJ dysfunction. But the most important aspect is getting it diagnosed and knowing the real cause behind your pain.

If you notice these symptoms then do visit us. Dr. Sachdeva’s Dental Institute is the best dental clinic in North Delhi offering best solutions for your problems. Have a talk with us and know your problem in depth.