What Is TMJ?

Temporomandibular joint disorder, commonly referred to as TMJ, is the common name given to any dysfunction related to the misalignment of the jaw. A complex network of ligaments, tendons, muscles, nerves and bones lies beneath your face and jaw. This intricate system sends sensations and signals to various areas in your upper body.

Your temporomandibular joint functions like a hinge, giving your jaw a full range of movement when eating, speaking and performing other tasks. When this joint is weakened, injured or misaligned, it can cause pain and impact your ability to perform a number of basic functions.

What Causes TMJ?

TMJ can develop as a consequence of a number of causes and conditions, such as:

• Bruxism (teeth grinding)
• Misaligned bite
• Missing teeth
• Arthritis in the temporomandibular joint
• Stress
• Injury to the head or neck

Common Symptoms of TMJ

TMJ can often be an elusive condition to identify because many of the symptoms, such as back and neck pain, seem unrelated to dental issues. On the other hand, TMJ can be mistaken for other conditions such as facial pain dysfunction.

The best way to obtain an accurate diagnosis of what is causing your symptoms is to visit an experienced general dentist. Regardless of the true source of your symptoms, it’s important to be aware of the physical signs that indicate you should visit the dentist’s office for an exam, including:

• Chronic migraine-like headaches
• Clicking or popping sounds in your jaw
• Jaw pain
• Facial pain
• Locking of the jaw joint
• Neck pain
• Upper back and shoulder pain
• Jaw pain
• Difficulty chewing
• Facial swelling
• Ringing in the ears (tinnitus)
• Limited jaw mobility

TMJ Treatment Options

Depending on the nature and severity of your condition, Dr. Güray Uysal may recommend one of the following treatment options:

• An oral appliance
• Dental restorations
• Orthodontics