TMJ pain: causes, symptoms and dental treatment

TMJ pain is more common than it seems and can be very annoying for those who suffer from it. Sometimes it comes on suddenly, sometimes it sets in gradually, but in both cases it can affect the way we talk, eat or even sleep.

Stay to read the article and find out all about this type of joint pain.

What is TMJ pain?

Temporomandibular joint (TMJ) pain is a localised discomfort in the area where the jawbone connects to the skull, just in front of the ear. It can occur on one or both sides, and manifest as a sensation of pressure, dull ache or throbbing pain.

Main symptoms associated with this pain

Temporomandibular joint pain can manifest itself in different ways, not always localised to the jaw. The most common symptoms are:

  • Clicking or popping noises: it is common to notice popping noises when opening or closing the mouth, indicative of an alteration in the articular disc or an incoordination in jaw movement.
  • Frequent headaches: Many patients with TMJ dysfunction experience tension headaches, as muscle overload is reflected in the temples or neck.
  • Limited mouth opening: there may be difficulty in opening the mouth fully or a sensation of it being ‘blocked’, affecting basic functions such as yawning or eating normally.

Causes of TMJ pain

TMJ pain can have different causes, from trauma to functional imbalances or muscular tension. One of the most common is bruxism, which consists of clenching or grinding the teeth unconsciously, especially at night, when the person is asleep and does not realise the pressure they are exerting. This habit generates an overload on the joint, which can lead to inflammation, muscle contractures and even limitations in jaw movement.

It is also common for patients to develop this discomfort due to alterations in dental occlusion, i.e. a bite that is not correctly aligned. This causes the joint to work in an unbalanced way, which over time leads to progressive fatigue of the structure.

Treatment of temporomandibular joint pain

The pain in the temporomandibular joint must be personalised and start from a very rigorous diagnosis by the professional. To do this, the dentist carries out a complete and very detailed clinical examination of the patient’s mouth, which can be complemented with X-rays, bite studies or 3D scans. Once the origin of the dental problem has been identified, the most appropriate treatment is established to improve the patient’s oral health.

In milder cases, the use of night splints, custom-designed to reduce muscle tension and protect the joint, is usually sufficient. When the problem is of occlusal origin, correction by orthodontics or adjustments to the contact surface of the teeth may be required.

Treatment of TMJ pain usually begins with simple, non-invasive, conservative measures. The initial goal is to reduce inflammation and relieve tension in the affected area. Some recommendations include following a soft diet during acute episodes, avoiding sudden or repetitive jaw movements, applying cold or hot compresses to the area, and learning relaxation techniques or guided stretches.

If, despite conservative measures, this pain still exists, orthodontic treatment or surgery is the option.

The importance of clinical monitoring and prevention

Clinical follow-up is essential to check the patient’s evolution and adjust treatment according to progress. TMJ pain does not always disappear immediately, so it is essential to maintain regular monitoring and adapt therapies if necessary.

At Gross Dentistas Dental Clinic we have professionals specialised in the diagnosis and treatment of TMJ pain. We use advanced technology and a comprehensive approach to offer real and personalised solutions for each of our patients.

If you suffer from any of these problems, come to our dental clinic in Malaga or contact our team to find out more.

Dra Concha Gross de Bethencourt

Ortodoncista especializada en el sistema de ortodoncia invisible, extensa trayectoria profesional y un gran número de pacientes satisfechos con los resultados obtenidos tras la finalización de su tratamiento.

Doctoralia | Masquemédicos | Topdoctors

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