The temporomandibular joint (TMJ) is the joint, or hinge, that joins the jaw bone (mandible) to the skull and is positioned in front of the ear. Temporomandibular Joint Disorder (TMD) is a term used to describe problems with the jaw joint and the muscles in your face that control it. So "TMJ" is the acronym for the body part, while "TMD" and "TMS" (temporomandibular joint syndrome) are used to describe problematic conditions.
Signs and symptoms of TMD may include:
- Pain in the jaw, jaw joint, temple, or ear
- Recurring headaches
- Clicking or locking of the joint
- A tired feeling in your face
- Pain when chewing or biting
If you suffer from any of the above jaw symptoms, please mention it to your dentist at Willow Dental Care, who will check your jaw joints and muscles for pain or tenderness and listen for clicks or grating sounds when you move them. They will also check for limited mouth opening, locking, or deviation on opening.
There are many possible causes of TMD. One of the most common causes is bruxism, which is the clenching and grinding of teeth. This puts a lot of pressure on the joint and overworks the muscles surrounding it. This usually happens during sleep but can also occur during the day. Common causes of bruxism include stress, anxiety, depression, obstructive sleep apnoea, reflux, poor posture, and certain medications.
Less commonly, TMD can also be caused by problems inside the joint, which may result from an injury to the area, rheumatoid arthritis, or general wear and tear.
The good news is that many symptoms can be managed with non-invasive treatments. Your dentist may recommend cold or heat packs, massage of the jaw muscles, yoga, meditation, or referral to a physiotherapist to address muscular issues involving the head, neck, shoulders, and back. An occlusal splint, often called a night guard, can also help protect your teeth from the effects of grinding and clenching.
Studies have shown that many more people experienced increased teeth grinding and clenching during the COVID-19 pandemic. Dentists have seen a record number of patients presenting with broken and cracked teeth, which can unfortunately lead to tooth loss if left untreated.
If you think you are experiencing TMD, we invite you to call 8610 6697 or book online. Our friendly and knowledgeable team at Willow Dental Care will carry out a thorough assessment. We will then work closely with you to help manage your symptoms, protect your teeth and jaws, and alleviate your jaw pain.