What is TMJ

TMJ stand for Temporomandibular Joint. This is a double joint, which connects the lower jaw (the mandible) to the base of the skull and allowing the jaw to perform movement during chewing, talking, swallowing, etc. During these movements the TMJ is subjected to a lot of stress. Some people are built-up strong and they can work their TMJ hard without consequences. However, many of us have a more delicate structure, and TMJ is easily affected.

 

With regards to TMJ problems, these involve not only the joint, but all related muscles, i.e., the muscles that move the jaw.

 

The complaints associated with this area vary - from popping and clicking sounds originating from the joints to different degrees of pain, sometimes more localized, sometimes hard to define.

 

Because this area is rich in nerves and because the fibres of the different muscles intermingle with each other, the sensation of pain often irradiates to areas remote to the TMJ - top of the head, neck, shoulders, and back.

 

Many people first go to visit physicians to obtain treatment for their ears, or shoulders and back. Some go through years of suffering and unnecessary anti-inflamatory and pain medication, without addressing the main problem.

 

The treatment should include behavioral changes (not chewing gum for example), fabricating different type of splints for the patient to wear for certain period of time, adjusting teeth surfaces, etc.

 

The treatment plan for each patient is developed individually, according to the patient's needs.

 

In our office, we have the very positive experience of successfully treating pathological conditions associated with TMJ area.