The temporomandibular joint (TMJ) connects the jawbone to the temporal bones of the skull. This joint allows for movement such as chewing, talking or yawning. Injury or pain in the joint can cause a temporomandibular joint disorder, or TMD. (TMD is sometimes incorrectly referred to as “lockjaw” but in fact lockjaw refers to a potentially fatal bacterial infection called tetanus.) Collectively, temporomandibular disorders are often referred to as TMJ disorders.
Symptoms of TMD often include:
These symptoms may be temporary or may develop into a long-term condition. TMD is often the result of an injury, such as a car accident in which your head is thrown back and forth (whiplash). It may also result from grinding or clenching of teeth, or it may develop along with arthritis. In some cases, poor posture may lead to TMD. The condition is more common in women than in men.
TMD is often diagnosed by a dentist who will perform a tooth exam and may recommend certain tests to confirm or rule out other conditions. These may include an X-ray, MRI or CT scan.
If TMD is diagnosed, treatment is usually nonsurgical, such as eating soft foods and icing the jaw and facial areas. Some patients who clench teeth may also benefit from stress-relieving techniques, such as mindfulness-based stress reduction, meditation and yoga.
The Main Line Health Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery team helps you achieve excellent oral health. Our goal is to help you improve how your jaw, mouth and teeth work and appear, especially if they have been affected by a health condition or injury.
The Main Line Health Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery team helps you achieve excellent oral health. Our goal is to help you improve how your jaw, mouth and teeth work and appear, especially if they have been affected by a health condition or injury.
Main Line Health dentists and oral surgeons can help you keep a healthy smile for a lifetime by visiting one of our locations throughout the Philadelphia area.
