Chances are you are looking at this page because you or a family member may have been diagnosed as having TMJ syndrome. You can relax. Thousands of patients have been diagnosed and treated for TMJ with excellent results. Others may have the syndrome, but have no idea that it can be treated.
On this page we address some of the most commonly asked questions and concerns about TMJ syndrome, as well as conservative methods of treatment. If you have further questions about diagnosis and treatment, please feel free to ask us.
What Is TMJ Syndrome?
Millions of Americans have it. It's more common in women than men. Women are more affected between 20 and 40 but TMJ disorders can occur at any age.
The lower jaw (mandible) is attached to the skull by a joint on each side of the face, called the temporomandibular joint. We refer to it as the TMJ. Any number of problems associated with the chewing muscles, ligaments, bones or the joints can prevent the TMJ from functioning properly. Hence, the term TMJ syndrome.
What Are The Symptoms Of TMJ Syndrome?
There are many signs and symptoms of TMJ syndrome, not all necessarily present in all cases. Here are some of the most common:
Many people have sever migraines and are unaware that it could be caused by a "bad bite."
How Can I Be Sure I Have TMJ Syndrome?
The best way to diagnose TMJ syndrome is to rule out other possible causes of pain. Diagnosis includes a thorough oral examination, medical history and X-rays. Sometimes we also make casts (models) of your teeth, to obtain a record of your biting and chewing pattern.
What Causes TMJ Syndrome?
Disorders often result when the chewing muscles and the TMJ work incorrectly. When this occurs, the muscles frequently cramp or go into spasm. Sometimes the spasms become part of a cycle that results in tissue damage, pain and muscle tenderness.
Accidents, including injuries to the jaw, neck, or head, or even diseases such as arthritis may cause TMJ disorders. The most common cause of TMJ syndrome is from an improper or bad bite.
Oral Habits (Grinding and Clenching)
People with TMJ symptoms tend to clench or grind their teeth. This is the only way Mother Nature can work on a bad bite. Sometimes patients clench their teeth together subconsciously. Or they may actually grind (gnash) their teeth, usually at night. The term for this is bruxism. Clenching and grinding make the chewing muscles tired. That's what causes them to go into spasm. And spasms cause pain.
A bite in harmony with the joint will position the jaw in the proper place. Sometimes the teeth don't come together properly when you bite. The general term for this is "malocclusion." An improper bite may cause stress on your chewing muscles, and the TMJ syndrome prevails.
How Is TMJ Syndrome Treated?
We feel that conservative treatment is best. Because every patient is different, treatment also varies from patient to patient.
A Final Note...
Many patients have been successfully treated for TMJ syndrome, using the above techniques. The first step is bringing to our attention any signs or symptoms of TMJ irregularities you may have noticed. In many cases we can successfully and conservatively treat the symptoms associated with TMJ disorders.
HARKINS, HANCOCK & JOHNSTON DENTISTRY | 11010 QUAKER AVE | LUBBOCK, TX 79424 | (806) 797-6453