The temporomandibular joint (TMJ) is the joint that connects your mandible (lower jaw) to your skull. The joint can be found on both sides of your head in front of your ears. It allows your jaw to open and close, enabling you to speak and eat.
This abbreviation has also been used to refer to a group of health problems related to your jaw, but this is becoming more commonly abbreviated as TMD or TMJD to distinguish the temporomandibular joint itself from TMJ disorders. These disorders can cause tenderness at the joint, facial pain, and difficulty moving the joint.
Causes
The temporomandibular joint is a hinge action and sliding motion joint. A disc cushions the joint, enabling the jaw to rotate, glide, close, and open. Problems with the muscles surrounding the joints, with the disc that cushions it, or with the joint itself can cause pain. TMJ pain is often temporary. In other cases, it comes in the form of flare-ups that disappear and then return. TMJ pain can also be chronic and progressive.
The most common causes of pain include:
a dislocated joint
issues with tooth and jaw alignment
arthritis
muscle tension
teeth grinding or clenching
Ways To Manage TMJ Pain
If TMJ pain is caused by teeth grinding or clenching, a nighttime bite guard can help. Although these are available over the counter, a fitted one designed by a dentist offers greater protection and more durability.
Other strategies that can reduce TMJ pain include:
Applying an ice pack to the affected area for 20 minutes. Some people find that alternating heat and ice, 15 minutes on and 15 minutes off, offers even greater relief.
Using non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), such as ibuprofen, to offer temporary relief.
Massaging the neck and head muscles to control tension radiating from the TMJ.
Controlling stress and anxiety. Psychological distress can cause people to tense their muscles without thinking, making the pain worse. It may also cause teeth grinding.
Meditation and therapy can help with controlling stress and anxiety. If lifestyle strategies do not work, anti-anxiety medications may be appropriate. In people whose TMJ pain is not well-controlled by home remedies, a stabilization splint can reduce pain and stabilize the joint.
In some cases, surgery to correct jaw imbalances is another option. These procedures cannot be reversed and can be painful, so people with TMJ pain should try other remedies first. For people whose TMJ pain is due to missing or broken jaws, jaw implants may offer relief.
Botox is not currently approved for use in the treatment of TMJ pain. Research is currently underway with the aim of shedding light on whether or not Botox is a viable treatment option. Botox is a clinical version of botulinum toxin type A, which paralyzes muscles. It has shown promise in treating other conditions, and some doctors believe it may work in treating TMJ pain.
TMD can be successfully treated in many people with at-home remedies, such as changing posture or reducing stress. If your condition is caused by a chronic (long-term) disease such as arthritis, lifestyle changes may not be enough. Arthritis can wear down the joint over time and increase pain.
Most cases of TMJD warrant changes in lifestyle habits, possibly combined with medications to ease any pain and discomfort. Aggressive treatments are rarely needed. Talk to your doctor about your options to determine what treatment is right for you.
