Procedures

Facial Pain / TMJ

TMJ Disorders

TMJ Anatomy
  • The temporomandibular joint is a "ball and socket" type joint located where the skull and lower jaw (mandible) meet.
  • The condyle "ball" fits into the fossa "socket". Between the condyle and the fossa is the cartilage or "disc" which acts a shock absorber for the jaw.
  • Ligaments and muscles help to stabilize the joint and move the lower jaw during normal functions such as chewing and talking.
  • TMJ problems can occur if one or more of the components are not functioning properly.

Some Causes of TMJ Disorders
  • Emotional stress
  • Grinding and clenching
  • Malpositioned jaws (Malocclusion)
  • Trauma
  • Arthritis
  • Displaced temporomandibular joint

Signs and Symptoms
  • Locking
  • Clicking and popping
  • Limited range of motion of jaws
  • Pain on palpation
  • Frequent headaches and/or neckaches
  • Pain on opening and closing mouth

Possible Treatments
  • Resting the joint
  • Soft diet
  • Non-steroidal anti-inflammatories
  • Physical therapy
  • Moist heat
  • Soft bite splint
  • Orthodontic therapy
  • Dental restorations to correct a defective bite
  • Orthognathic surgery if the jaws are not aligned properlyJoint surgery