TMJ stands for your temporomandibular joints, and they are a set of muscles in your jaw that we use when we move our mouths. Examples of this would be when we are chewing, eating, swallowing, or talking. Disorders of this joint can happen with inflammation or injury. They can also occur if you tend to grind or clench your teeth regularly. The pain associated with this is temporary. However, it is uncomfortable and can be managed.
Common symptoms include pain, inflammation, and tenderness around your jaw or when you move your jaw. This includes any movement such as talking or when you eat. You may also experience some facial pain, aching around the ear, clicking, or locking. This pain occurs because your temporomandibular joint acts as a hinge for the bones in the jaw. If parts of this mechanic erode, move, or the cartilage gets damaged, it can cause painful movement.
To be diagnosed, you should prepare a list of symptoms for your physician. They will likely feel around your jaw and face and look at how you are moving it. If you are having pain, they may identify the source and check for inflammation. Getting dental X-rays, a CT scan, or an MRI assists in diagnosing the disorder. These scans help detect if there are bone or joint issues. Occasionally, you may need something called an ‘arthroscopy.’ During this procedure, a small tube is placed into the joint, and a camera is inserted to look at the functionality and painful area.
There are several different treatment options to help alleviate the pain. Some therapies that can be considered are physical therapy or counseling. Both can help educate you on ways to use your muscles and joints in a specific way to minimize pain. There are also mouth guards that can be placed over the teeth to aid people who grind their teeth. There are more specific procedures but more invasive options as well. Arthrocentesis is a process that includes small needles that irrigate through the joints to aid with inflammation. Injections are available, such as Botox, that may temporarily relieve pain. A surgical option is a condylotomy, which is done on the mandible but not the joint. This is especially helpful for locking in the jaw.
If you are suffering from TMJ, you can also look at alternative or at-home remedies. Many times, your provider will suggest ideas to minimize your pain and overuse of the muscles. For example, if you eat softer or smaller pieces of food, you will be putting less pressure and work on your jaw. You can stretch and massage your muscles and use a warm compress to reduce tenderness. Less common remedies include visiting an acupuncturist, relaxation techniques, or biofeedback that monitors your muscle tightness. Speak with your provider about what options will best target your TMJ symptoms. Although you may have inflammation or discomfort, they are generally manageable with simple remedies.
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