Some causes given for this condition are not well-proven. They include:. Poor posture can also be an important factor in TMJ symptoms. For example, holding your head forward while looking at a computer all day strains the muscles of your face and neck. Many people end up having "trigger points. Trigger points can refer pain to other areas, causing a headache, earache, or toothache. Other possible causes of TMJ-related symptoms include arthritis , fractures, dislocations, and structural problems present since birth.
You may need to see more than one medical specialist for your TMJ pain and symptoms. This may include a health care provider, a dentist, or an ear, nose, and throat ENT doctor, depending on your symptoms. Your provider will also need to consider other conditions, such as infections, nerve-related problems, and headaches that may be causing your symptoms. Read as much as you can on how to treat TMJ disorders, as opinion varies widely.
Get the opinions of several providers. The good news is that most people eventually find something that helps. Mouth or bite guards, also called splints or appliances, have long been used to treat teeth grinding, clenching, and TMJ disorders.
They may or may not help. If conservative treatments do not work, it does not automatically mean you need more aggressive treatment. Use caution when considering treatment methods that cannot be reversed, such as orthodontics or surgery that permanently changes your bite. Reconstructive surgery of the jaw, or joint replacement, is rarely required. In fact, the results are often worse than before surgery. For many people, symptoms occur only sometimes and do not last long.
They tend to go away in time with little or no treatment. Most cases can be successfully treated. Some cases of pain go away on their own without treatment. TMJ-related pain may return again in the future. If the cause is nighttime clenching, treatment can be very tricky because it is a sleeping behavior that is hard to control. Mouth splints are a common treatment approach for teeth grinding. While some splints may silence the grinding by providing a flat, even surface, they may not be as effective at reducing pain or stopping clenching.
Splints may work well in the short-term, but could become less effective over time. Some splints can also cause bite changes if they are not fitted properly. This may cause a new problem. See your provider right away if you are having trouble eating or opening your mouth. Keep in mind that many conditions can cause TMJ symptoms, from arthritis to whiplash injuries. Your bite and facial muscles will also be tested.
It is not uncommon for x-rays, MRIs, and CT scans to be required to determine the cause as these images can provide insight into the joint, surrounding tissues, and structures of your jaw. Depending on the diagnosis, you may need to be referred to another doctor or specialist for further evaluation and treatment. Several different treatment options are available depending on your condition and the severity of your symptoms.
In most mild cases TMD can be treated with self-care practices at home. Home methods include:. If your symptoms do not improve with these home remedies or if your case is more complex, your doctor may prescribe pain medication, anti-inflammatory medicine, muscle relaxants, or even Botox to reduce tension in muscles and nerves. Your doctor may also provide you with custom made bite guards or splints to prevent clenching or grinding of your teeth. Other treatment options may include low-level laser therapy, ultrasound therapy, or low-level electrical stimulation to provide muscle relief.
If misaligned teeth or bite is the cause, corrective dental treatment may be necessary. Every case is unique, and a careful diagnosis and treatment plan will help to address your needs. If you have any questions about TMD or your temporomandibular joint, please contact Kossowan Orthodontics today so that we can help. If you are interested in a complimentary virtual consultation please schedule one through our live chat feature on the right.
TMJ and TMD TMJ is an abbreviation for the temporomandibular joint which connects the mandibular, or your lower jaw, to the temporal bones of the skull. What are the causes of TMD? Your doctor, your dentist or a TMJ specialist can discuss possible causes and treatments for your problem. The temporomandibular joint combines a hinge action with sliding motions. The parts of the bones that interact in the joint are covered with cartilage and are separated by a small shock-absorbing disk, which normally keeps the movement smooth.
TMJ disorders care at Mayo Clinic. Mayo Clinic does not endorse companies or products. Advertising revenue supports our not-for-profit mission. This content does not have an English version. This content does not have an Arabic version. Overview Temporomandibular joint Open pop-up dialog box Close. Temporomandibular joint TMJ disorders affect the temporomandibular joint, located on each side of your head in front of your ears.
Request an Appointment at Mayo Clinic. Share on: Facebook Twitter. Show references TMJ disorders. National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research.
Accessed May 10, Firestein GS, et al. Temporomandibular joint pain. In: Kelley and Firestein's Textbook of Rheumatology. Philadelphia, Pa.
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