Temporomandibular joint dysfunction

Temporomandibublar Joint Dysfunction

File:Temporomandibular Joint.png

Illustration of the Temporomandibular Joint

Temporomandibular joint dysfunction (often abbreviated as TMJ or TMD) is a medical condition affecting the temporomandibular joints, which connect the jawbone to the skull. This condition can cause pain and discomfort, often affecting a person's ability to speak, eat, and even sleep.

Symptoms

Symptoms of TMJ dysfunction can vary greatly, but often include:

• Pain or tenderness in the jaw
• Difficulty or discomfort while chewing
• Aching pain in and around the ear
• Difficulty opening or closing the mouth
• Locking of the joint, making it difficult to open or close the mouth

Causes

The exact cause of TMJ dysfunction is often difficult to determine. The pain may be due to a combination of factors, such as genetics, arthritis, or jaw injury. Some people who have jaw pain also tend to clench or grind their teeth, although many people habitually clench their teeth and never develop TMJ disorders.

Diagnosis

Diagnosis of TMJ dysfunction typically involves a physical examination by a doctor or dentist. They may check the patient's jaw joints for pain or tenderness, listen for clicking or grating sounds during jaw movement, and examine the patient's bite and facial muscle function.

Treatment

Treatment for TMJ dysfunction typically involves a combination of medication, physical therapy, and in some cases, surgery. Non-surgical treatments include pain relievers and anti-inflammatories, muscle relaxants, and oral splints or mouth guards. More severe cases may require surgical procedures.

See Also

• Temporomandibular joint
• Jaw pain
• Arthritis