Temporomandibular disorders, or TMD, are a common cause of discomfort around the jaw. As much as 12% of the population suffers from temporomandibular joint and muscle disorders that can get in the way of daily living.
FortunatelFortunately, there are ways of treating and mitigating the condition. Here, we’re going to go over the basics of TMD pain and when to see a specialist who treats TMJ for those punching into Google, “TMJ specialist near me”.
What IS TMD? Causes, Symptoms & Treatments
TMD involves muscles and joints around the jaw area, causing chronic pain and difficult movement. In particular, it affects the temporomandibular joints (or TMJ). These two joints connect the jaw to the base of the skull, allowing for muscle movement around the jaw and mandibles.
Normally, muscles in this area work smoothly and in tandem to allow for motions such as talking, chewing, yawning, and more. When muscles, ligaments, or bones are out of alignment, it can lead to TMD issues.
According to the National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research, TMD comes in three main forms.
Myofascial Pain
Myofascial pain is the most common issue and results in discomfort around the fascia of the jaw. This area is the connective tissue that makes it possible to move the jaw up and down, forward and backward, and side to side independently of the skull.
Myofascial pain can affect more than just the immediate jaw area. Some people suffering from TMD issues also experience pain and stiffness in the neck and shoulders.
Internal Derangement
Internal derangement involves dislocation or displacement of the bones around the jaw. One of the most common complaints is a dislocated jaw, either from a forceful impact or from everyday activities such as yawning, eating, or even laughing.
Internal derangement can also include a displaced disc at the top of the spine. This condition damages the layer of cartilage between the skull and the jawbone, reducing cushioning and increasing the risk of chronic pain and associated injuries.
An injury to the condyle also classifies as internal derangement of the joint. This area includes the end of the jawbone, where it meets the skull bone. Injuries here often result in difficulty moving the jaw and mandibles without pain.
Degenerative Joint Diseases
While many TMD issues are caused by blunt force, problems sometimes arise based on underlying issues or heredity. The most common conditions that lead to TMD include rheumatoid arthritis and osteoarthritis, both of which can occur in the jaw joint.
Causes of TMD
The root cause isn’t always clear in patients. In many cases, issues get caused by injury or trauma to the TMJ and jaw area. It can also result from damage to the head, neck, or upper spine.
In many cases, bruxism is the culprit behind TMD pain. Involuntary clenching, biting down, or grinding the teeth puts strain on the joints and muscles around the jaw. For many people, bruxism occurs during sleep, making it difficult to control. Almost 10% of the adult population struggles with sleep bruxism.
Over time, excessive teeth grinding can lead to damage that causes chronic TMD issues. This bruxism is often due to underlying emotional and mental health issues, particularly stress and anxiety.
Arthritis can also cause TMD issues, especially in aging patients. Other chronic conditions such as IBS or fibromyalgia also make it more difficult to manage TMD. Inflammation around the jaw joints can lead to pain, stiffness, and immobility.
Certain risk factors make it more or less likely for a given individual to experience TMD. Issues are most likely to arise in young adults between the ages of 20 and 40, and women are most likely to report symptoms.
Some people are genetically susceptible to TMD due to underlying conditions such as arthritis. Others simply face excessive stress or other health issues that make TMD more likely.
Symptoms of TMD
It isn’t always easy to identify TMD. When in doubt, it’s best to go and see a TMJ specialist. However, there are some common signs and symptoms to look for that may lead to a diagnosis.
- Soreness around the jaw, particularly before waking up or going to bed
- Pain around the jaw, eyes, shoulder, neck, or back
- Persistent headaches
- Earaches or tinnitus
- Lockjaw or popping
- A limited range of jaw motion
- Tooth sensitivity
- Fatigue or dizziness
- Pins and needles in the fingertips
Treating TMD
How to treat TMD? If you’re experiencing jaw pain, you may be asking: how can I find a TMJ specialist near me?
A TMJ specialist can help to identify, diagnose, and treat TMD issues in patients of all ages. There is a wide range of treatment options available depending on the patient’s health, medical history, and the severity of symptoms.
For mild cases, most doctors will recommend resting the affected area. Some may also prescribe anti-inflammatory medications and pain relievers to help in the recovery process. Diet changes to softer foods can help to give the jaw muscles more rest each day.
A doctor may suggest stress management techniques for people with stress-related TMD, especially in patients with bruxism. Some physicians may recommend an orthopedic mouthguard.
More advanced or severe cases might require physical therapy to mitigate symptoms. Regimens often include posture training to help align the spine and the skull.
If these conservative treatments don’t work, patients may need to undergo surgery. There are three main types of TMD surgery, including:
- Arthrocentesis: This procedure injects chemicals into the TMD site to wash away inflammatory compounds.
- Arthroscopy: A tiny light and camera get inserted through a small hole above the joint for precision surgery.
- Open-joint surgery: A large incision allows doctors to remove aberrant tissue or bone growth.
Summary?
If you’ve been experiencing pain, stiffness, or discomfort around your jaw, it may be due to TMD issues. If you’re showing symptoms, it’s a good idea to ask: is there a TMJ specialist near me?
With a proper diagnosis, It can be relatively easy to manage and treat. Talk to your doctor to find out if you need TMD recovery treatment.
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