The Temporomandibular joint is a sliding hinge joint that connects your jaw to your skull. It is present on both sides of your jaw.The joint connects mandible in the lower jaw and temporal bone, in the side of the skull. The TMJ helps in movement of the jaw while talking and chewing.
How do you know it’s a TMJ pain?
A TMJ syndrome is inflammation of the jaw muscles or nerves.
TMJ causes include:
- Physical injury to teeth or jaw
- Arthritis
- Auto immune disease
- Teeth clenching or grinding
- Stress
- Surgery or infection
- Genetic or even hormonal issues can cause TMJ disorders
TMJ disorder is a broad category and it includes a wide range of causes. People suffering from this condition show a variety of symptoms, out of which persistent pain in the jaw and restricted jaw movement top the list. The condition is very evident and most of the times self-detectable.
What are the different TMJ disorder treatments available?
TMJ disorders can be treated by simple home remedies. Applying ice pack to the affected part can help reduce the pain. There are a few drugs which will help the patients relieve from their pain. However, when these home remedies fail one must seek medical assistance. A physiotherapist can suggest exercises to reduce the pain. One could do any kind of massage or stretching their jaw and neck to help solve the issue. Application of sedative essential oils can provide temporary relief.
When does one have to go through a TMJ dysfunction surgery?
When both home remedies and medical aids fail to solve the issue, surgery on the jaw or dental surgery becomes necessary. A TMJ Arthoscopy or arthocentesis is usually done in an outpatient setting. A total joint replacement is done for severe cases.
What are the benefits of early detection and treatment of a TMJ disorder?
The most important benefit of treating a TMJ disorder is it reduces the risk of any further dental damage. When left untreated, the pain might shift to the ear region and affect it too. Early detection and treatment can protect your ear health. Some tend to ignore till the pain gets severe and it affects their emotional state and lifestyle. A treatment can thus boost your overall mood and quality of life.
Care2cure has an expertise of working in this area, so much so that you could actually call them the TMJ specialist. They help their patients by providing heat therapy, ice therapy and exercises. Not only this but they also provide massage to relieve the overall muscle tension and also help improving the jaw posture and correcting the alignment.