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TMJ is an abbreviation for Tempromandibular Joint. This is
the joint where the jaw bone hinges to the skull. It is an incredibly
complex joint that works every time you open your mouth to eat, to speak,
to breathe and swallow.
Abnormal function of this joint causes sounds (popping or grinding) when
you open or close your mouth. Sometimes pain and headache can develop in
one or both sides of the face. Sometimes TMJ pain will feel like an
earache.
Joint problems can be brought on by accident
or trauma, grinding teeth (bruxism) can cause
joint pain. Strenuous activity can cause joint pain. Mental stress can
cause joint pain. Malocclusion can cause
joint pain.
Most people will get relief with minor treatment. Conservative treatment is
the best.
If you experience TMJ pain:
Rest the jaw as much as possible. Avoid opening wide. Stay
with soft foods as much as possible.
- Massage the muscles of
the side of your face. Use your fingers to press and kneed the muscles
of your jaw and side of your head.
- Use an anti inflammatory
such as Motrin or aspirin 3 times a day for 2 or 3 days
- Use ice to reduce
swelling to the joint and the muscles to side of your face. Try to ice
the area 2 or 3 times a day.
- Try relaxation therapy.
If symptoms do not improve contact
your dentist. Once you have had TMJ always be careful in eating extremely
hard or crunchy foods. Do not chew gum.
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