An Introduction to TMJ Disorder: What Causes TMD and How is it Treated?
Your chronic jaw pain could be a sign of a serious dental condition known as temporomandibular joint disorder. Also referred to as TMJ, TMD and TMJD, temporomandibular joint disorder is a condition affecting the jaw joint and the associated muscles involved in jaw functionality. People suffering with a TMJ disorder may experience a variety of chronic conditions that can make it difficult to eat, speak and breathe.
According to statistics from the Academy of General Dentistry, it is estimated that more than 10 million Americans suffer from TMJ disorder. This staggering statistic is supplemented by a further estimation that as many as 65% of Americans will experience some form of temporomandibular joint disorder symptom in their lifetime.
TMJ Disorder Types
TMJ experts believe that the disorder can be categorized as one of three temporomandibular joint disorder types, each of which affects sufferers differently. TMJD types include:
- Myofacial TMD: The most common form of temporomandibular joint disorder, myofacial TMD affects the muscles that control jaw movement.
- Internal Derangement TMD: Associated with displacement/dislocation of the jaw joint.
- Arthritic TMD: Degenerative jaw disorder resulting in pain and swelling of the jawbones.
It is possible to develop multiple categories of TMJ disorder (though less likely). Your TMJD symptoms may be chronic or intermittent. If you experience any such symptoms, you are advised to contact your physician or dentist immediately for a thorough TMJD evaluation.
TMJD Symptoms & Causes
There are a variety of TMJ symptoms, each of which may affect sufferers differently. Development of these symptoms often serves as the precursor to TMJ diagnosis. TMJD sufferers who experience intermittent pain may be less inclined to consult their physician or dentist about the problem, essentially making it more difficult to diagnose.
TMJD symptoms include:
- Earache, headache, neckache or backache
- Sensitive tooth/teeth
- Facial swelling
- Jaw clicking
- Jaw pain
- Misalignment of the teeth
- Stiff jaw
- Jaw functionality limitations
According to the Academy of General Dentistry, the exact cause of TMJ disorder is unknown; however, your TMJD may be caused by a variety of factors that range from trauma to stress. Oral health may also play a role in the development of TMJD. If you suffer from malocclusion (tooth misalignment), the bite irregularity could eventually lead to jaw displacement. Teeth grinding and clenching also may play a potential role in TMJ development.
TMD Treatment Options
Diagnosis of your particular category/categories of TMJD represents the first step towards treating the condition. More often than not, TMD treatments can be performed from the comfort of your home. Only in the most severe cases, when conservative approaches to treatment have failed, will surgical options be considered.
Common TMJD treatment options include appliance therapy (mouthguards, splints, etc.), occlusal equilibration, intra-oral appliances and orthodontics. Alternative treatments are available for consideration. For example, "off-label" use of Botox has been proven to reduce the pain and discomfort associated with TMJD, yielding improved jaw function. However, Botox injections provide temporary treatment, so routine Botox treatment would be required for long-term symptom relief.