Temporomandibular Disorders

The temporomandibular joint corresponds to the jaw joint with the skull. The temporomandibular joint is one of the most complex of the human body and is responsible for moving the jaw forward, backward and sideways.

What are the temporo-mandibular disorders (TMD)?

Temporo-mandibular disorders relate to various problems affecting the temporomandibular joint and facial muscles. If you put your fingers in front of the ears and open your mouth you will feel the movement of the TMJ. It consists of a small ball, the condyle which articulates with another bone, the glenoid cavity through a small hard fibrous.

Several studies show that 20-30% of the population suffer from symptoms of TMD, apparently more women than men.

 

What are the causes of temporomandibular disorders?

- Trauma, either under the direct trauma or by prolonged clenching (bruxism);
- Stress
- Malocclusion
- Arthritis, TMJ
- Tumors

Moreover, some general medical problems may affect the temporomandibular joint, such as rheumatoid arthritis or osteoarthritis.

Loss of Teeth

When multiple teeth are lost and not rehabilitated, the mandibular movement can alter the bite. This can overload the remaining teeth and over time can lead to both changes in the position of the teeth as the problems of the temporomandibular joint.

How is it diagnosed?

An important part of diagnosis is the history of the problem, when the symptoms began and whether they occur at certain times of day.
The specialist will look for signs of wear and clenching and will palpate the muscles of mastication and neck and take x-rays to teeth and joints.
You may need an MRI or a CT scan.

 

How is it treated?

The treatment of TMD depends on its cause. Most can be treated with a combination of the following:

• Soft diet

• Occlusal splint

• Analgesics

• Anti-inflammatory

• Muscle relaxants

• Thermotherapy

• Laser

• Electrotherapy

• Orthodontic treatment

• Multidisciplinary oral rehabilitation.

If conservative measures do not work and depending on your circumstances you may need surgical treatment.