Types of TMJ Disorders

The temporomandibular joint, commonly called TMJ, is one of the most complex joints in the human body. Here, our North York dentists describe three main types of disorders of the TMJ joint.

What is TMJ Disorder?

The TMJ is the joint that connects the jaw to the temporal bones of the skull (located just below your temple and in front of your ear). You use this hinge joint every time you move your jaw to breathe, talk, or eat.

Temporomandibular joint disorders occur when the facial muscles and jaw are strained. If the disorder is severe enough, you may experience pain in the area, and the joint may eventually become immobile.

There are three main types of TMJ disorders:

Types of TMJ Disorder

Muscle Disorders

This pain is known as myofascial pain and involves discomfort or pain in all the muscles that control your jaw’s function. You may feel pain in your shoulders, neck, and jaw muscles.

Joint Derangement Disorders

To make the opening and closing of the jaw easy and smooth, there is a small, soft disc placed between the condyle and the temporal bone. This disc also absorbs shocks to the jaw joint during its movements.

The inner workings of the jaw are unbalanced or disrupted in joint derangement disorders due to a damaged bone or disc dislocation. Internal temporomandibular joint derangement results from disc displacement. For the time being, no surgery can solve this problem.

Joint Degenerative Disorders

This condition is more commonly referred to as osteoarthritis. Cartilage holds the round ends of the two bones in a joint together. This allows the bones to easily glide over one another. It also absorbs shocks caused by movement.

A joint degenerative disorder occurs when cartilage wears away or breaks away. The patient will experience pain, and swelling and won’t be able to move the jaw.

Symptoms of TMJ Disorder

No matter which type of TMJ Disorder you have, you’ll likely feel pain in your face, jaw, and around your ears when you open your mouth to talk or eat.

Other symptoms can include:

• Clicking, popping, or grinding sounds when you open your jaw
• Additional pain that moves down into your neck and shoulders
• Headaches, pain in your temples or dizziness
• Facial bruising or swelling
• Problems opening, closing or clenching your jaw

When to see a dentist

If home remedies such as gently massaging your jaw and neck muscles, avoiding stress, chewing gum, and over-the-counter non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs are not effective, you should see your dentist.

Before officially diagnosing you with TMJ Disorder and recommending treatment, the dentist will review your dental history, perform a thorough exam of your jaw and bite, and take X-rays to study.

• Dental splints
• TMJ Therapy
• Oral Surgery (for severe cases)
• Physical Therapy
• Prescription medications

With your dentist’s help, your TMJ Disorder can often be managed with a combination of dental care and home remedies.

Are you experiencing jaw pain, headaches, or dizziness? We may be able to create a treatment plan that works for you. Book an appointment at North Park Dental Care today.