Temporomandibular Joint (TMJ) is the name given the joint where the two jaws meet. A disorder of this joint is called TMD (Temporomandibular Joint Disorder) characterized by pain and discomfort in the region. The TMJ is similar to other joints comprising of bone, muscles, nerves, and blood vessels. The Temporomandibular Joint connects the mandible (lower jaw) to the temporal bone (upper jaw) in front of the ears on either side.
Symptoms of TMD (Temporomandibular joint Disorder) is facial tension or pain, ear ache, headaches or migraines, neck and sometimes shoulder pain as well, jaw clicking and trouble opening jaws wide.
Causes of Temporomandibular Joint Disorder (TMD)
- Bruxism is the process of teeth grinding or teeth clenching putting pressure on the TMJ
- Malocclusion is bad bite and frequent pressure put on the TMJ leads to muscle tension, headache and facial pain.
- Frequent gum chewing, thumb sucking, and teeth grinding also leads to TMD
- Traumatic Injuries directed at the jaw
- Stress is the leading cause of TMD
Treatment Options for Temporomandibular Joint disorder
- With the help of orthodontics dentists correct bad bite allowing upper and lower jaw to meet harmoniously
- Mouth guards are used as treatment for teeth grinding
- The jaws are exercised to reduce stress and tension in the area
- Stress management in life itself.