Learn about the causes, symptoms, diagnosis, treatment options (surgical and non-surgical), common related issues, and preventive care for temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders.
"TMJ Disorders"
Dr. Dimple Sethia, the dentist and Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeon practising in Girinagar, Bangalore, specialises in diagnosing and treating Temporomandibular Joint (TMJ) disorders.
TMJ, the Temporomandibular Joint, connects your lower jaw (mandible) to your skull (temporal bone). This joint allows you to move your jaw up and down, side to side, and forward and backward, enabling actions like chewing, speaking, and yawning.
Causes of TMJ Disorders
❭ Muscle issues: Clenching, grinding (bruxism), muscle tension due to stress.
❭ Joint derangement: Displacement or protrusion of the articular disc.
❭ Arthritis: Osteoarthritis or rheumatoid arthritis affecting the joint.
❭ Trauma: Jaw injuries or fractures impacting joint stability.
❭ Malocclusion: Poor bite alignment alters joint mechanics.
❭ Postural problems: Forward head posture that strains jaw muscles.
❭ Psychological factors: Stress and anxiety cause muscle tension.
Symptoms of TMJ Disorders
❭ Pain in jaw, face, neck, or ears.
❭ Clicking, popping, or grinding sounds during jaw movement.
❭ Limited or restricted jaw opening (jaw locking).
❭ Sensation of the jaw “slipping” or “out of place”.
❭ Headaches, especially migraines or tension headaches.
❭ Earaches, tinnitus, or a feeling of fullness in the ears.
❭ Facial swelling or tenderness.
❭ Difficulties with chewing or speaking.
Preventive Care
❭ Avoid habits like nail biting, gum chewing, or jaw thrusting.
❭ Manage stress through relaxation techniques.
❭ Practice good posture, especially if working at a desk.
❭ Use mouthguards if you grind or clench your teeth at night.
❭ Regular dental check-ups for early detection.
❭ Maintain dental health and proper occlusion.
❭ Avoid excessive yawning or opening your mouth widely.
Diagnosis of TMJ Disorders
❭ Clinical Evaluation
❭ Detailed history of symptoms and habits.
❭ Physical exam: jaw movement, muscle tenderness, joint sounds.
❭ Imaging Studies:
❭ MRI: Best for soft tissues/disc position.
❭ Panoramic X-ray / CBCT: Bony structure assessment.
❭ Arthroscopy or joint injections in complex cases.
❭ Bite analysis and dental assessment.
Treatment Options
❭ Behavioural modifications: Avoid jaw overuse, reduce clenching.
❭ Splints or mouth guards: Protect teeth and reduce muscle tension.
❭ Medications: NSAIDs, muscle relaxants, antidepressants.
❭ Physical therapy: Jaw exercises, massage, heat/cold therapy.
❭ Dental correction: Orthodontics or adjustments for malocclusion.
❭ Minimally invasive surgery: Arthrocentesis, arthroscopy.
❭ Open joint surgery: For severe cases with structural damage.
If you are experiencing symptoms related to TMJ disorders or suspect you might have one, please don’t hesitate to contact me via WhatsApp or call at 733-805-8850. For expert care, you need a qualified Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeon, not just a general dentist. Dr. Dimple Sethia offers both online consultations and in-person clinical consultations, available at Girinagar, Bangalore.
