Jaw Joint Treatments

Temporomandibular Joint (TMJ) Treatments

The temporomandibular joint (TMJ) is a hinge-like joint located between the skull and the jawbone. It is positioned on both sides of the head, just in front of the ears.

This joint enables the jaw to move up, down, right, and left, allowing functions such as speaking, chewing, and yawning. The jaw joint is controlled by the surrounding muscles.

Signs of Temporomandibular Joint Disorders

People with TMJ disorders may experience temporary or long-term severe pain and discomfort. These disorders are more common in women than in men. They are also more frequently observed in individuals exposed to high levels of daily stress, especially those who clench or grind their teeth (bruxism).

Symptoms Observed in TMJ Disorders

• Pain or tenderness in the face, joint area, head, shoulders, or inside/around the ears during chewing, speaking, or yawning
• Difficulty fully opening the mouth or restricted jaw movement
• Locking of the jaw in an open or closed position
• Painful or painless clicking sounds while opening or closing the mouth
• A tired appearance in the face
• Difficulty chewing or the feeling that the upper and lower teeth do not fit together properly
• Swelling on one or both sides of the face

Additionally, toothache, headaches, neck pain, dizziness, ear pain, shoulder pain, and tinnitus are also common findings.

Treatment Methods

Treatment for TMJ disorders varies from person to person. Treatment options may range from simple self-care measures to preventive and medical treatments, injections, and surgical procedures. Specialists generally recommend starting with conservative treatments.

Medical Treatments

Medication prescribed by your doctor is usually the first step of treatment.

For patients who grind or clench their teeth, muscle relaxants and pain relievers help relax the jaw muscles and reduce pain.

Night Guards and TMJ Splints

Night guards and TMJ splints are appliances placed over the upper or lower teeth to maintain them in a specific position during use.

These appliances protect the teeth from damage caused by grinding and/or clenching and also help balance tooth contacts.

Corrective Treatments

Missing restorations and crown or bridge prostheses applied to teeth requiring restoration can help rebalance the bite relationship and joint position.

Avoiding Excessive Jaw Movements

Movements that strain the jaw joint should be avoided.

Activities such as chewing gum, excessive yawning, shouting, or prolonged singing should be limited.

In addition, resting the chin on the hand while sitting at a desk or holding the phone between the shoulder and ear while talking places extra stress on the joint and should be avoided.