TMJ DISORDERS

Find Soothing Relief for Jaw Pain with TMJ Disorder Therapy

Are you experiencing jaw pain, clicking, or difficulty opening your mouth wide? You may be suffering from a temporomandibular disorder (TMD). At NorthShore Center for Oral & Facial Surgery and Implantology (NSCOFS), our experienced oral surgeons near Chicago, IL, can diagnose and treat your TMD to restore a healthy, comfortable jaw. Learn more by calling 847-623-5915.

What is TMJ Disorder?

TMJ disorder (temporomandibular joint disorder) encompasses conditions affecting the temporomandibular joint (TMJ) and the surrounding muscles. Temporomandibular disorders (TMDs) refer to a range of conditions that cause pain and dysfunction in the jaw joint and muscles controlling jaw movement.

When the TMJ and its associated muscles don’t function harmoniously, it can lead to pain, discomfort, and difficulty with jaw movement. This can significantly impact your daily life.

Symptoms of TMJ Disorder

The symptoms of TMJ disorder can vary from person to person, but some of the most common ones include:

• Pain: This can occur in the jaw joints themselves, radiating to the face, ears, neck, or even head.
• Jaw dysfunction: Difficulty opening or closing your mouth wide, limited jaw movement, or a sensation of the jaw “locking” in place.
• Noises in the jaw: Clicking, popping, or grating sounds when opening or closing your mouth.
• Facial pain: Aches or tenderness in the face, including around the temples or cheeks.
• Headaches: Frequent headaches, particularly tension headaches.
• Earaches: Pain in or around the ears, even though there’s no ear infection.
• Toothaches: Pain in the teeth despite no dental issues.
• Chewing problems: Difficulty chewing or discomfort while eating.

Common Causes of TMJ Disorder

The exact cause of TMJ disorder isn’t always clear, but several factors can contribute to its development:

• Teeth Grinding or Clenching (Bruxism): This habit stresses the jaw joint and muscles. Teeth grinding or clenching can stress the muscles that control jaw movement, leading to TMJ disorder.
• Jaw Injury: Trauma to the jaw from a blow, accident, or dental procedures can damage the joint or surrounding structures.
• Arthritis: Degenerative joint diseases like osteoarthritis can affect the TMJ, causing pain and inflammation.
• Stress: Chronic stress can lead to muscle tension in the jaw, contributing to TMJ symptoms.
• Misaligned Bite: Uneven bite patterns can strain the jaw joint and muscles.
• Autoimmune Diseases: Certain autoimmune conditions can affect the TMJ joint.

It’s important to note that these are just some common causes. In some cases, a combination of factors might be involved.

Benefits of Seeking Treatment for TMJ Disorders

TMJ disorders can significantly impact your quality of life. Fortunately, seeking professional treatment offers numerous benefits:

• Pain Relief: The primary goal of treatment is to relieve pain and discomfort in the jaw, face, and surrounding areas. Treatment can significantly improve your daily comfort and function.
• Improved Jaw Function: Treatment can help restore proper jaw movement, allowing you to open and close your mouth comfortably and chew food effectively.
• Reduced Headaches and Facial Pain: TMJ disorders often cause headaches and facial pain. Treatment can address the underlying cause and alleviate these secondary symptoms.
• Improved Sleep Quality: Pain and discomfort from TMJ can disrupt sleep. Treatment can help you achieve better sleep, leading to increased energy and overall well-being.
• Reduced Stress and Anxiety: TMJ pain can be stressful and anxiety-provoking. Effective treatment can alleviate these emotional burdens and improve your mental health.

Our TMJ Disorder Treatment Options

Conservative Measures

Some conservative ways to relieve TMJ pain include:

• Botox injections. Botox relaxes your muscles and provides substantial relief of the symptoms that can last three to six months.

• Pain Relievers and Nonsteroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs: Over-the-counter or prescription medications, such as naproxen or ibuprofen, can help manage pain and inflammation in the jaw joint and surrounding muscles.
• Muscle Relaxants: These medications can help relax tense muscles in the jaw, reducing pain and discomfort.
• Self-Care Techniques: We’ll guide you on self-care practices like applying heat or ice packs to the jaw, practicing relaxation techniques like meditation or deep breathing, and maintaining a soft diet to minimize stress on the jaw joint.

Splints (Nightguards)

Custom-made splints, often called nightguards, are a cornerstone of TMJ treatment. These comfortable mouthpieces worn during sleep or throughout the day help keep your teeth slightly apart, preventing teeth grinding or clenching and reducing muscle tension in the jaw. This can significantly alleviate pain and improve jaw function.

Bite Correction

In some cases, TMJ symptoms can be caused by an uneven bite. We can explore options like orthodontics or restorative dentistry referral to adjust your bite and improve jaw alignment, promoting optimal function and reducing stress on the joint.

Stress Management Techniques

Chronic stress is a known trigger for TMJ flare-ups. We may recommend incorporating stress management techniques like meditation, cognitive-behavioral therapy, or biofeedback into your treatment plan. By managing stress, you can significantly reduce the risk of TMJ flare-ups and improve your overall well-being.

Preventing TMJ Disorders

While TMJ disorders can’t always be prevented, certain lifestyle practices can help reduce your risk:

• Manage Stress: Chronic stress is a significant contributor to TMJ issues. Practice relaxation techniques like meditation, yoga, or deep breathing.
• Maintain good posture: Poor posture can strain the jaw joint. Be mindful of your posture throughout the day and avoid slouching.
• Develop healthy jaw habits: Avoid chewing gum excessively, biting your nails, or clenching your jaw.
• See a dentist regularly: Regular dental checkups and cleanings can help identify potential issues with the upper and lower teeth and ensure proper oral health.
• Use a supportive pillow: A proper pillow can help maintain proper neck alignment and reduce stress on the jaw.

Frequently Asked Questions