TMJ
The temperomandibular joint is the joint where the mandible joins with the temporal bone in the skull near the ear. It is the only movable joint in the head. It consists of nerves muscles and bone. It moves every time one talks and swallows food. Hence, it is one of the most frequently used complex joints of the body. It is common among females.
TMJ is a result of displacement of cartilage disc that affects the nerve fibres in the joint. The popping or clicking of the joints and the pain in the muscles of the joint is the most common symptom of TMJ.
The symptoms of TMJ are head pain, neck pain, pain in the muscle of mastication namely masseter, locking of the jaw and clicking. The pain is extreme during talking and chewing food. It may spread to other areas radially in the ear and the sides of the head and teeth. The TMJ pain is most commonly confused with ear pain since it is close to the ear. Tooth loss and its disorders may also cause improper functioning of the TMJ. It may cause swelling and inflammation. In some cases the jaw may wide open or not open at all.
There are many factors which cause TMJ disorder. They are chewing gum habits, excessive movement of the joint and eating habits. It can be caused due to micro trauma or macro trauma. Sometimes one may keep on chewing and clenching which may cause stress and finally lead to TMJ. Osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis may cause inflammation leading to TMJ.X-rays are taken to know about relationship and location of the TMJ with the muscles. This may give a better idea for the treatment
Several tests and proper diagnosis is done and then proper treatment plan is scheduled depending upon the TMJ disorder. Sometimes the occlusal surface of the teeth may be damaged due to trauma. So as a first step proper occlusion should be restored. Then in order to reduce the pain in the TMJ pain killers like analgesic and paracetamol should be given. If the diagnosis is done early self remedies can be done under the advice of the doctor such as to avoid chewing gum, resting the muscles and relaxing with warm heat.
In case of trauma or injury long term treatment plan should be done by an experienced dentist. Ice packs are applied to prevent inflammation and then relaxation techniques are followed. Most commonly conservative therapy is done and only few patients may require joint replacement.
Home remedy involves a diet of soft foods and anti-inflammatory drugs like aspirin and ibuprofen. However it is better to consult a doctor after the onset of symptoms. Follow the doctor’s specifications for a better cure.
| 
