info on,diagnosing, and treating TMJ?

Question

hmm what can you tell me about it? do you have it or know anyone who has it? how is it cured? [especially when TMJ is a result from OC]. thanks

*OCD, not OC

Answer 1

Most of the above information is correct. I spent the 90's being treated for TMJ with a series of splints, muscle injections,physical therapy and lastly braces. Today I still have a clicking jaw and some stiffness but I no longer have the debilitating headaches and balance problems that I had before. To successfully treat TMJ dysfunction you need a myofacial pain specialist you can talk to and family support REALLY helps.

It will not happen over night but TMJ can be treated, good luck.

Answer 2

TMJ is Temporal Mandibular Joint syndrome it can be very painful. Your Dentist can diagnose it. I don't have it myself but I have my degree in Expanded Function Dental Assisting and I've had a lot of patients who have it. sometimes you'll have like a clicking or popping in the hinge of your jaw or in really bad cases you won't be able to close your mouth. You can experience really bad head aches. It can also come from grinding your teeth at night in your sleep or grinding awake too. I'm not sure what you mean by OC the only OC I know is like Oxy-contin and I can't think what they would have to do with TMJ unless like I said about grinding you teeth. Hope I've helped.

Answer 3

The temporomandibular joint (TMJ) is the area directly in front of the ear on either side of the head where the upper jaw (maxilla) and lower jaw (mandible) meet. Within the TMJ there are moving parts that allow the upper jaw to close on the lower jaw. This joint is a typical sliding "ball and socket" which has a disc sandwiched between it. The TMJ is used many hundreds of times a day in moving the jaw, biting and chewing, talking and yawning. It is one of the most frequently used of all the joints in the body.

The temporomandibular joints are complex and are composed of muscles, tendons, and bones. Each component contributes to the smooth operation of the TMJ. When the muscles are relaxed and balanced and both jaw joints open and close comfortably, we are able to talk, chew, or yawn without pain.

We can locate the TMJ by putting a finger on the triangular structure in front of the ear. The finger is moved just slightly forward and pressed firmly while opening the jaw. The motion felt is from the TMJ. We can also feel the joint motion if we put a little finger against the inside front part of the ear canal. These maneuvers can cause considerable discomfort to a patient who is experiencing TMJ difficulty, and doctors use them for making the diagnosis.

1. Jaw Rest: It can be beneficial to keep the teeth apart as much as possible. It is also important to recognize when tooth grinding is occurring and devise methods to cease this activity. Patients are advised to avoid chewing gum or eating hard, chewy, or crunchy foods such as raw vegetables, candy, or nuts. Foods that require opening the mouth widely, such as a big hamburger, are not recommended.

2. Heat & Ice Therapy: Assists in reducing muscle tension and spasm. However, immediately after an injury to the TMJ, treatment with cold applications is best. Cold packs can be helpful for relieving pain.

3. Medications: Anti-inflammatory medications such as aspirin, ibuprofen (Advil, and others), naproxen (Aleve, and others), or steroids can help control inflammation. Muscle relaxants, such as diazepam (Valium), aid in decreasing muscle spasms.

4. Physical Therapy: Passively opening and closing the jaw, massage, and electrical stimulation help to decrease pain and increase the range of motion and strength of the joint.

5. Stress Management: Stress support groups, psychological counseling, and medications can also assist in reducing muscle tension. Biofeedback helps patients recognize times of increased muscle activity and spasm and provides methods to help control them.

6. Occlusal Therapy: A custom made acrylic appliance which fits over the teeth is commonly prescribed for night, but may be required throughout the day. It acts to balance the bite and reduce or eliminate teeth grinding or clenching (bruxism).

7. Correction of Bite Abnormalities: Corrective dental therapy, such as orthodontics, may be required to correct an abnormal bite. Dental restorations assist in creating a more stable bite. Adjustments of bridges or crowns act to ensure proper alignment of the teeth.

8. Surgery: Surgery is indicated in those situations where medical therapy has failed. It is done as a last resort. TMJ arthroscopy, ligament tightening, joint restructuring, and joint replacement are considered in the most severe cases of joint damage or deterioration.