Jaw joint pain, often called Tempero-mandibular joint disease (TMJ/TMD) is being seen more and more frequently in my office and other dental offices in Los Angeles. I have noted that it is especially common in people living in the Encino, Tarzana, Sherman Oaks, and Woodland Hills areas. No, it is not poluted water or toxic waste. It is usually stress. There seems to be no shortage of that around here these days.
Patients with TMJ/TMD problems experience grinding of their teeth, neck and shoulder pain, headaches and a variety of ear problems. I have seen people who could not open their mouth because of the muscle spasms caused by TMJ/TMD. I have also found people with loud cliks, pops, or grinding sounds coming from the joint when they open. Another symptom is a ringing in the ears. This is a serious, painful and progressive disease. Patients often seek help from their family physician or an Ear, Nose and Throat medical specialist who in turn usually refers them to a dentist familiar with the problem.
Several muscles are involved in the disorder. The major ones are the masseter in the cheek and the temporalis on the side of the head. The TMJ joint itself, which is the jaw hinge, has a cartilage and several ligaments in it that can be damaged by these powerful muscles that are used for chewing. Several smaller muscles in the area are also involved and contribute to the problem in most cases by causing painful spasms.
There are several treatments for TMJ/TMD problems. A bite that is uneven can lead to persitant grinding and needs to be corrected. Several acrylic resin appliances of different designs such as the NTI appliance can take the stress off the muscles and joint. Prescription strength medications can also be helpful in reducing the muscle spasms, inflamation, and pain.
I have found stress management techniques also helpfull because of their ability to ease ay least part of the problem. In almost every case the patient reports been under major stress when the problem first arose or when it became severe. Another fairly common cause of TMJ/TMD is a blow to the jaw such as an auto accident, a brawl, or a sports injury.
The first step, as always, is to see your dentist who hopefully is familiar with TMJ/TMD problems and their treatment. I would be happy to help you find such a dentist if my office is inconvenient.
Tip of the day: A good walk every day is a great stress reducer and improves not only your TMJ/TMD problem but your overall health greatly.
Best regards, AM