The TMJ (temporomandibular joint) connects the jawbone to the skull and is located on both sides of the face. When the jaw joint and the muscles that control its movement experience pain, there is an increased risk of developing TMJ syndrome or temporomandibular joint disorder (TMD).
Both sides of our face have a complex joint that moves horizontally and vertically. In fact, the muscles and jaw on our face move with the help of the TMJ. TMJ syndrome is usually not serious and can often be controlled due to its mild symptoms.
Symptoms of TMJ disorder include:
- Severe pain in the face or neck
- Stiffness in the jaw muscles
- Locking of the jaw and face
- Inability to move the jaw
- Hearing sounds like clicking from the temporomandibular joint area
- Dental problems such as wear and tear
- Teeth grinding (bruxism)
- Tinnitus (ringing in the ears)
- Headaches and dizziness
- Misalignment of the jaw, where the upper and lower teeth do not properly align
How to treat TMJ syndrome?
TMJ treatment:
- When performing jaw stretching exercises as instructed by your doctor, make sure to apply a warm towel to the side of your face for 5 minutes. Doing this several times a day will be very effective in reducing pain.
- To avoid prolonged chewing, eat soft foods like mashed potatoes, yogurt, soup, eggs, cheese, fish, cooked vegetables, and stewed fruit.
- Eating hard foods and chewy items like raw carrots or gum can increase pain in the TMJ.
- Using a mouthguard or night guard ensures that your upper and lower teeth align properly, keeping your jaw in a better position during the night.
- Avoid triggering movements like wide jaw opening (yawning). These require lifestyle changes and eliminating bad behavioral habits.
- Take appropriate measures to reduce stress.
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Medication therapy
If you do not improve with home care, you can use pain-relieving medications as prescribed by your doctor.
- Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs)
- Muscle relaxants
- Antidepressants
- Topical anesthetics
- Corticosteroids
Medical treatments:
- Physical therapy
- Botox
- Thermotherapy
- Cryotherapy
If the pain caused by this condition affects your quality of life, be sure to consult with your doctor or dentist.
