TMJ Disorder: Symptoms, Causes, Medication, Exercises, and FAQs

What is TMJ Disorder?

TMJ stands for temporomandibular joint. It connects the temporal bone (upper jaw) with the lower jaw and is located right next to the ear on both sides. Problems in this joint are referred to as TMJ disorders or temporomandibular disorders (TMD).

TMJ disorder symptoms

Difficulty in chewing
Jaw makes grating or popping sounds while eating
Jaw remain stuck in an open or closed position
Facial pain, especially in the jaw joint area or near the ears
Headaches
Hearing loss

TMJ disorder causes

Poor oral health
Stress
Bruxism
Poor posture
Tooth extraction
Motor vehicle accident
Tooth or jaw alignment issues
An accidental blow to the mouth

TMJ Pain relief medication

Over-the-counter drugs like ibuprofen or aspirin can offer pain relief. Then, depending on the signs and symptoms, the dentist or physician might recommend antianxiety medicines, antidepressants, or botox/steroids injections after conducting a clinical examination.

TMJ exercises

Goldfish exercises
Relaxed jaw exercise
Chin Tucks
Forward jaw movement
Side-to-side jaw movement
Resisted opening and closing of the mouth

Here’re some of the frequently asked questions

Is TMJ a medical or dental problem?

As TMJ disorders are caused due to multiple psychological, dental, or neuromuscular problems, it can be termed as both, medical and dental issue.
Who diagnoses TMJ disorder?

Yes, TMJ disorders can cause earaches, as the joint is located nearby the ear structure.
Can TMJ cause neck pain?

The patient suffering from the temporomandibular joint problems can experience radiating pain in the neck area.
Does TMJ cause headaches?

Patients often experience migraine-like headaches.
Can TMJ cause gum pain?

Gum diseases can be one of the reasons behind the temporomandibular joint disorder. So, yes, it can be vice-versa.
Are there any different symptoms of TMJ in adults?
- Increased dizziness
- Over sensitiveness to sound
- Teeth grinding
What are the alternative treatment options for TMJ?

There are alternative treatment options available for patients who do not wish to optfor medications or surgery. Dentist may recommend patient to use custom mouth guard or a night guards. Dentist or physician may recommend stress-reduction exercises, meditation, massage and heat treatments, as well as other physiotherapy techniques.
Can temporomandibular disorder get cured on its own?

TMJ disorders caused due to the psychological or minor muscular issue might get cured on their own. However, if it is caused due to a dental or neuromuscular problem, the patient needs immediate treatment to avoid worsening of the condition.
How much time does TMJ disorder treatment require?

The treatment might last for a few days to few weeks, depending on the causes behind the medical condition.
Can TMJ pain be ignored?

Temporomandibular joint pain can also be caused due to arthritis and other joint related diseases. Thus, the jaw pain should not be ignored, especially, if it fails to cure on its own within few days.

TMJ Disorder Treatments

What is TMJ Disorder?