Temporomandibular Joint Disorders
(Jaw and Joint Disorders)
Temporomandibular Joint Disorders (Jaw Joint Disorders)
The temporomandibular joint (TMJ) is located just in front of the external ear canal and connects the lower jaw to the skull. Morphologically, it varies from person to person and even between the right and left joints of the same individual. It is a complex joint that performs both hinge and sliding movements. Disorders of the TMJ can develop due to trauma, malocclusion, systemic conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis or gout, stress-related teeth grinding, and genetic factors. In TMJ disorders, both the chewing muscles and the joints are affected simultaneously. The complex, interwoven structure of the joint makes treatment challenging.
Frequently Asked Questions
The most common signs include limited mouth opening, difficulty and pain while chewing, pain in the head, neck, ear, temple, and cheek areas, jaw locking, jaw dislocation, and swelling or asymmetry of the face.
In the treatment of temporomandibular joint disorders, non-invasive conservative methods are generally preferred. These include muscle exercises and physical therapy, thin and transparent dental splints that cover the teeth (occlusal splints), medication (muscle relaxants and pain relievers), solutions to reduce stress factors, and Botox applications to the masseter muscle. In more advanced cases, intra-articular surgical procedures may be performed.
We recommend that you contact your dentist immediately. Keep in mind that delaying treatment can make the process more complicated.