Temporomandibular Joint (TMJ) | Jaw Disease Know More

Consider the nature of the condition. The temporomandibular joints (each of us have two) connect the lower jaw,or mandible, to the skull. These joints enable us to move our jaw up and down, in and out, and even sideways. They are on the job whenever we talk, chew, yawn, swallow, or smile. The temporomandibular joints work along with a complex and interrelated system of ligaments, bones, muscles, nerves, and blood vessels. In most people all of these work together harmoniously and cause no problem.

However, if the jaw is out of balance, the result may be excruciating pain. The situation has been likened to forcing a six - foot man to stand in a room only 5 feet 10 inches high. He may remain in a slumped position for a while without discomfort, but in time the pain can gradually become torturous. Similarly, when the jaw cannot maintain its proper skeletal position, the muscles must support it continuously. The result is the same as with the tall man under the low ceiling - pain.

The American Equilibration Society states that when the temporomandibular joints are misaligned, they can produce "the worst kind of physical stress because there is no way body can find relief". Unlike an injured limb, which can be rested, the jaw joints and related muscles are active all the time, day and night.

Commenting on the consequences of such constant stress on these particular joints and muscles, New York dentist Harold Gelb, an authority on TMJ problems, writes: "Stress makes the already tense muscles in the head, neck, and shoulders go into spasm. Circulation in these muscles will be limited because of their tautness, and where circulation is poorest, metabolic wastes will build up and form trigger points within the tissue. Trigger points can refer pain anywhere in the body; one in the shoulder can cause severe pain on the side of the head, mimicking migraines.  Because most of the stress caused by the jaw imbalance centers around the tissue of the head, neck, and shoulders, most of the symptoms occur in that region. "

What Causes TMJ Disorders

But how do these joints get out of balance in the first place? Sometimes it is the result of a blow to the head, neck, or jaw. Incorrect chewing or swallowing habits may also be responsible. The most common cause, however, is malocclusion, a condition wherein the upper and lower teeth don't meet correctly.

Often imbalance of the temporomandibular joints is aggravated by harmful oral habits, such as grinding or gnashing one's teeth, clenching a pipe, chewing on pencils or pens. Or the imbalance may be aggravated by poor posture, such as when you lean hunched over a desk or habitually support your chin on your hand.

The American Dental Association explains that when the jaw muscles and joints are unable to work together properly, the results is often muscle spasm. Muscle spasm causes pain, tenderness, and tissue damage. In time the joints and muscles themselves become damaged, and their ability to work correctly is hindered even further. This leads to more spasm, more pain and more damage.

What You Can Do If You Have To TMJ

How can TMJ pain be stopped? Sometimes moist heat to the face will bring relief. Certain drugs may also help in some cases, but this is at short-term therapy. Finding a permanent cure generally involves correcting bad habits that put stress on the temporomandibular joints and their associated ligaments, muscles, nerves, and so forth. It may also involve repositioning the jaw.

A particularly damaging practice is the clenching or grinding of the teeth. Normally, a person's teeth should be slightly separated except when chewing or swallowing. However, about 40 percent of TMJ sufferers habitually clench their teeth when these should be separated, especially at night while sleeping. Usually, this tooth - clenching habit is a reaction either to emotional stress or to maloccluded teeth.

So, what can be done about clenching? Some have been able to break the habit by reducing or eliminating the emotional tension that causes it. Dentists have helped others by fitting over the teeth an unobtrusive bite plate (occlusal sprint), which combats the harmful effects of clenching. Usually worn out at night, this plastic device prevents the teeth from meetings incorrectly. Often, wearing this device brings immediate relief.

There are other things you can do to reduce tension in the jaws. Avoid leaning your chin to your hand. Don't slouch over your desk, and don't hold telephone to your shoulder with your chin. Develop jaw movements that are relaxed controlled. And don't gnaw on pens or pencils.

What Your Dentist Can Do If You Have TMJ

If you are already suffering TMJ pain, you will likely need treatment from a dentist. Since the position of the teeth when the mouth is closed determines the position of the teeth when decide to change the way the teeth and perhaps by building up others - a process called equilibration. This allows the jaw to assume a correct and comfortable position. Equilibration requires time and skill on the part of the dentist, but it is usually painless to the patient.

The result are often amazing. Robert, mentioned at the outset, had his bite readjusted in this way. "All of a sudden it felt like I had a whole lot of new teeth in my mouth," he said. "And best of all, no headaches. "Someone else exclaimed:" it feels like I have a whole new mouth!"

In the meantime, if you suspect that you have TMJ syndrome, why not visit a dentist who knows about the great impostor? He or she may be able to help you. But now, let me know in the comments section how you are coping with the disease, your small comment might help someone and share your hacks to coping.

And also, feel free to share this page with any of the social buttons below.