What Is TMJ Disorder and How Can It Be Treated?

TMJ disorder, or temporomandibular joint disorder, is a condition wherein the joint at the juncture of the upper and lower jaw is no longer working properly. This is a complex joint with multiple ligaments, tendons, surrounding nerves and muscles and discs and cartilage that all must function together properly in order for the lower jaw to move forward, backward and side-to-side. Any time there is a problem that prevents this complex joint made up of a system of muscles, ligaments, discs and bones from working as it should is called TMJ disorder.

Patients describe their TMJ as feeling like the jaw is popping or clicking or even sticking in one position for a moment or two as if the jaw is stuck or frozen in position. This is always uncomfortable but it is very often excruciatingly painful as well. The exact cause of this condition is often impossible to determine and is often irrelevant in the treatment of the condition. One need not know what the cause of the condition is in order for a doctor to offer relief from the discomfort. Symptoms of this condition can include unexplained headache, ear aches, clicking or popping sounds coming from the area, pain when chewing or opening the mouth, jaws that lock in one position, soreness around the jaw, and a sudden change in one's bite.

In order to treat this condition doctors often will tell patients to apply a heating pad to the area, or take an anti-inflammatory or a muscle relaxer. Wearing a dental appliance known as a bite plate is often recommended, especially for those that also grind their teeth while they sleep. This appliance works best when custom fitted by a physician or dentist. Sometimes physical therapy to help a patient learn to relax the muscles in the area can be helpful. Relaxation techniques are important as stress plays a role in the severity of this condition. In the most serious cases surgery is performed so that the patient can have a more comfortable and pain-free life.

It is important for patients to understand that there is no one treatment or cure that works for TMJ disorder. One treatment or combination will work for one patient but will not help another find relief at all. Occasionally, a patient will seem to spontaneously feel better, other times a patient who was seemingly over the pain and discomfort will begin to have symptoms again for no apparent reason. TMJ can be tricky to treat but all options must be pursued as this is a very uncomfortable and even life changing condition of left unchecked.