Disorders of the temporomandibular joint (TMJ) affect the joints that connect your jaw to your skull, located on either side of your head. These issues can lead to pain in the jaw and face, as well as dental problems. TMJ disorders, often abbreviated as TMDs, are quite common, impacting 60 to 70% of people at some point in their lives.
Symptoms of TMJ disorder differ for everyone. While many cases improve on their own or with simple treatments, some develop into chronic or recurring issues. Treatment options depend on how severe the symptoms are and what is causing them. Fortunately, both home remedies and medical treatments can help manage TMJ symptoms.
TMJ encompasses several conditions called temporomandibular disorders (TMDs), which specifically affect the TMJ joint. These are broadly classified into issues related to the jaw muscles (myofascial pain) and those caused by problems inside the joint itself (intraarticular TMJ).
Myofascial pain involves discomfort, tension, and fatigue in the jaw-related muscles and connective tissues. When these muscles, which control jaw movements and chewing, are affected, TMJ symptoms occur. Various factors such as autoimmune conditions, teeth grinding, stress, and anxiety can lead to myofascial pain.
Intraarticular TMJ issues stem directly from joint damage or inflammation. These problems can arise from disc dislocation in the joint, a dislocated jaw, as well as conditions like rheumatoid arthritis and osteoarthritis.
TMJ symptoms can vary widely. Jaw and facial pain is the most common symptom, which can be due to either myofascial pain or intraarticular TMJ. This pain might stay localized or spread and often worsens with jaw movement.
TMJ can also make it hard to open and close your mouth. Sometimes, your jaw may even lock in place. Popping or clicking sounds in the jaw can sometimes accompany TMJ, and this, along with pain, may suggest an underlying issue.
Moreover, TMJ can lead to jaw misalignment, also known as malocclusion, affecting the fit and health of your teeth and potentially causing crooked teeth, cavities, and other dental issues.
TMJ disorders can also result from a mix of genetic, injury-related, health, and psychological factors when no specific cause is identified. Myofascial pain happens due to inflammation of the jaw-related muscles and mechanical issues.
Diagnosing TMJ doesn’t follow a standard process. Instead, healthcare providers rely on your medical history and symptoms. They may perform tests to rule out other conditions and confirm a TMJ diagnosis.
Most TMJ cases eventually get better on their own. If treatment becomes necessary, it’s usually handled by a dentist, primary care doctor, oral surgeon, or ear, nose, and throat specialist (ENT). They typically start with less invasive treatments.
Basic management includes educating patients and suggesting home remedies like the use of special jaw exercises, which can be taught by a physical therapist to enhance mobility and ease pain. Therapists might also perform manual therapy to directly massage these muscles.
There are also alternative medicine approaches, often used along with other treatments, since they aren’t expected to be effective on their own. Due to stress and anxiety being potential contributors, behavioral therapies are beneficial for some people.
Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) like ibuprofen or naproxen are often the first choice for treating TMJ pain. Muscle relaxants might also be prescribed for jaw muscle-related issues.
Dental devices, called intraoral appliances, can help reduce symptoms related to teeth grinding and jaw misalignment. Options range from custom-fitted nightguards to over-the-counter versions, though success varies.
For cases unresponsive to other treatments, injections or surgery could be considered. However, these are generally last resorts.
While TMJ can be very painful, up to 40% of cases resolve on their own, and 5 to 12% might require more intensive medical attention. Living with TMJ can significantly affect daily activities like eating and speaking. However, with the right mix of therapies and home management, symptoms can be alleviated.
TMJ pain can be isolated to one side of the jaw, depending on whether one or both joints are affected. If pain is widespread, both joints are typically involved, whereas pain on one side suggests that specific joint is affected.
Many TMJ cases can improve with home treatments and medications, helping reduce symptoms in most people. While some cases may turn chronic, causing prolonged symptoms, most clear up within a few weeks with consistent management.
