TMJ Disorders

TMJ Anatomy

1. The temporomandibular joint is a "ball and socket" type joint located where the skull and lower jaw (mandible) meet.
2. 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.
3. Ligaments and muscles help to stabilize the joint and move the lower jaw during normal functions such as chewing and talking.
4. TMJ problems can occur if one or more of the components are not functioning properly.

Some Causes of TMJ Disorders

1. Emotional stress
2. Grinding and clenching
3. Malpositioned jaws (Malocclusion)
4. Trauma
5. Arthritis
6. Displaced temporomandibular joint

Signs and Symptoms

1. Locking
2. Clicking and popping
3. Limited range of motion of jaws
4. Pain on palpation
5. Frequent headaches and/or neckaches
6. Pain on opening and closing mouth

Possible Treatments

1. Resting the joint
2. Soft diet
3. Non-steroidal anti-inflammatories
4. Physical therapy
5. Moist heat
6. Soft bite splint
7. Orthodontic therapy
8. Dental restorations to correct a defective bite
9. Orthognathic surgery if the jaws are not aligned properly
10. Joint surgery