TMD or temporomandibular joint disorder refers to a host of conditions that relate to the jaw as well as muscles and facial structures that control the movement of the jaw.
Due to the lack of sufficient public knowledge about TMD, it is often incorrectly referred to as TMJ which simply means temporomandibular joint. These are the joints that connect the jaw to the skull.
When these joints are in proper alignment with the skull, the result is a well-synchronised muscle action. Otherwise, some serious problems arise such as migraine, clicking sound near the ear and sometimes, locked jaws.
TMD CATEGORIES
TMD fall in three basic categories namely myofascial pain, degenerative joint disease and internal derangement of the joint.
Myofascial pain- This is the most common TMD condition which is highly associated with pain and discomfort of the muscles that
move
the jaws as well as the muscles around the head, shoulders and the neck.
Internal derangement of the joint- This is a condition that relates to the displacement of the disc of the joints, the jaw and the injury to the condyle or the round-like edges of the jaw joints.
Degenerative joint disease- This is a condition that is directly caused by osteoarthritis or rheumatoid arthritis.
TMD CAUSES
The following are some known causes of TMJ disorders:
- Rheumatoid arthritis
- Dislocation or displacement of the disk that is situated in between the socket and the jawbone
- Trauma in the joints
- Malocclusion of the teeth
- Airway obstruction
- Injuries, including whiplash
» Click here to read more TMD SYMPTOMS
There is a range of symptoms that are commonly experienced by people with temporomandibular joint syndrome. Each case is different from another, thus, not all symptoms may be present in all patients. Some of the symptoms include:
- Headache and /or migraine
- Clicking of the jaw
- Grinding or clenching of the teeth
- Headache and migraine
- Limited jaw motions
- Locking jaw
- Tinnitus
- Vertigo
- Ear pain or congestion
- Facial Pain
- Breaking/cracking of teeth and/or restorations
- Cervical abfractions on the teeth (ditching at the gumline)
- Interrupted sleep/insomnia/nervousness
- Bell's Palsy
- Trigeminal Neuralgia
- Paresthesia of the fingertips (numbness/tingliness)
» Click here to read more TMD DIAGNOSIS
TMD symptoms
can be sometimes
vague.
However as in any proper
diagnosis
there
are standard tests and examinations used to ascertain the possibility of a patient having TMD. These include physical examination of the affected areas and diagnostic tests. Here at Advanced Dental Care Clinic, we employ the latest advanced technology and state-of-the-art equipment.
One of these diagnostic tools, called the K-7 is used
to record and analyse the jaw movements, the teeth positioning and the activities of the surrounding facial muscles in order to provide an accurate diagnosis for patients of TMD.
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TMD TREATMENT
Treatments for TMD vary from simple interventions such as application of hot and cold packs on the affected area,
exercises, trigger point therapy, occlusal adjustments,
diet modification, posture correction and relaxation of the temporomandibular joints to more complex treatments such as physical therapy, behaviour modification, wearing of TMJ appliances and/or surgery.
Sometimes neuromuscular orthodontics or even a full mouth rehabilitation is required to stabilise the final occlusion.
After a careful evaluation of the condition of her patients, Dr. Parrag recommends treatment options that would provide the most relief from TMD symptoms.
» Click here to read more
If you suspect you may be suffering from temporomandibular joint disorder, please contact Advanced Dental Care Clinic and schedule your complimentary 10 minute consultation.
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