Jaw Joint Diseases (TMJ Disorders)

 

There are many signs that can help you know if you have a jaw joint problem. This might help you avoiding wrong treatment directions that may cost a lot of money, time, effort and end with nothing at all.

SIGNS AND SYMPTOMS OF JAW JOINT DISORDERS

• Abfraction.

• Teeth grinding (Bruxism) which leads to flat (worn down) abraded areas on the top of the teeth, sensitivity, multiple root canal treatments, decreased teeth length, short vertical dimensions of the face, concave profile and difficult swallowing.

• Limited mouth opening with deviation of the lower jaw to one side on mouth opening.

• Red, swollen, inflamed and painful corners of a patient's mouth.

• Swelling of the face.

• Headaches: The most common headache is located on the side of the head over the area of the ear and is often misdiagnosed as migraine. Another headache which is located at the back of the head just above the neck may also occur.

• Ear problems as ear ache, decreased hearing, ringing in the ears.

• Difficulty sleeping (Insomnia) due to all of the above problems.

 

TREATMENT

• The most effective treatment for TMJ disorders is a soft appliance that is called, Soft Mouth Guard, TMJ appliance or Night guard, all are different names for the same appliance.

  • The appliance directs the joints into unstrained position and relaxes the muscles that hold the jaws.

  • The appliance should be used as much as you can for a minimum of 8 hours during the night time and one hour during the day time.

  • Reduction in the symptoms occurs after one to two weeks according to individual variations.

  • The appliance program should continue for six to eight weeks according to each case.
     

• A three months course of Glucose-amine tablets help building your joint cartilage, a material that lubricates the joint, this may be enhanced by vitamin C.

• Hot packs (applied externally) on the joint and muscles area is important to enhance blood flow which cleans out and nourishes your hurting muscles.

• Avoid emotional stresses and get an 8-hour sleep per day.