TMJ Disorder

TMJ dysfunction refers to a jaw joint (called the temporomandibular joint or TMJ), which is functioning improperly or has sustained damage due to some sort of trauma. TMJ dysfunction may involve the muscles of the face or jaws or may involve the jaw joint itself. There are numerous kinds of damage that can occur in the TMJ; as a group they are known as TMD or temporomandibular dysfunction or temporomandibular dysfunction syndrome.

TMD can be caused by many factors including but not limited to the following:

• Trauma from injury or whiplash
• Poor bite (occlusion) – If the teeth do not fit together properly and are not in harmony with the jaw muscles, stresses are placed on the joints, which can lead to damage in the ligaments and to the cartilage in the joints.
  Habitual clenching or grinding of the teeth – If the bite does not function properly, clenching and grinding habits may develop, which puts stress on the muscles of the jaw. The muscles of the jaw become hyperactive, which can lead to stress in the joints and to joint breakdown.
• Arthritic changes in the bones of the jaw joint.
• Tumors of the jaw or jaw joints or surrounding structures.

Can TMJ Dysfunction Be Treated?

After a proper diagnosis, TMJ dysfunction (TMD) can be treated. Often treatment may involve multiple dental and medical specialists and physical therapists. Treatment may involve physical therapy and jaw exercises, orthodontic treatment, splint therapy, bite (occlusal) therapy, or surgery, in additional to many other modes of treatment.

It is important to realize that TMJ dysfunction (TMD) usually develops over a long period of time (with the exception of severe trauma cases and tumor cases). TMD is often progressive in nature, which means that it can increase in severity over time. Because of this, it’s important to obtain an early diagnosis and obtain treatment before extensive damage in the jaw occurs.

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