TMJ is the short form of the temporomandibular joint. TMJ syndrome is the physical malfunction of the jaw muscles and nerves. This disorder is mainly caused by inflammation or injury to the temporomandibular joint. The joint connecting the skull and jawbone is known as the temporomandibular joint. An inflamed or injured TMJ leads to pain with clicking, chewing, popping, and crackling of the jaw. Also, it may lead to Eustachian tube dysfunction, tooth grinding, migraines, and dislocation of the TMJ. Tmj syndrome can also be termed as a temporomandibular joint disorder.
Signs and Symptoms of TMJ Syndrome
- Jaw pain
- Headache
- Popping sounds in ears
- Ear pain
- Locking, especially on the jaw joint
- Sore or stiff jaw muscles
- Jaw popping and clicking
- Temple area pain
Risk Factors of TMJ
Below are the key risk factors that lead to TMJ syndrome:
- Jaw injury
- Chronic clenching or grinding of teeth
- Different types of arthritis including osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis
- Connective tissue illnesses, especially that may impact the Baton Rouge TMJ.
Leading Causes of TMJ Disorder
Scientific research is underway to identify the main causes of the temporomandibular syndrome. There are various factors that contribute to dysfunction and muscle tightness that characterizes TMJ. Some of these causes may include jaw misalignment, teeth trauma, poor posture, inflammatory disorders, stress, anxiety, orthodontic braces, and gum chewing.
Temporomandibular Preventive Measures
- Physical Therapy and Chiropractic
The right chiropractor will have the ability to align your facial bones and neck with relieving TMJ pressure and stress. There is enough research showing that a chiropractic appointment or physical therapy may effectively work on TMJ trigger points. It’s, therefore, important to note that not all TMJ disorders can be healed by a chiropractor.
- Mouth Guards
The best mouth guards should have the ability to minimize night clenching and grinding. It’s important to use s, prescribed mouth guard. The right mouth guard will gently correct a bite or jaw that’s out of alignment. Malocclusion or bad bite where the upper teeth and lower teeth do not align properly can lead to the temporomandibular joint syndrome. Perfect alignment of the jaw can help heal and restore strained muscles that lead to TMJ pain and inflammation. There are various types of mouth guards: night mouth guards are normally worn during the night to maintain proper teeth alignment and other mouth guards worn during physical activities or sports.
- Temporomandibular Medication
Recently, there are three main types of TMJ disorder: anti-inflammatory drugs, muscle relaxers, and steroids. Also, tricyclic antidepressants such as desipramine, amitriptyline, nortriptyline, and doxepin can heal TMJ syndrome. It’s a great idea to consult your physician for the best prescription.
Home Remedies for Temporomandibular Disorder
There is a high probability that you can treat mild TMJ disorder with the right remedies. If you’re experiencing severe symptoms of TMJ, it’s a great idea to seek medical attention. Below are essential home remedies that can help you treat mild TMJ syndrome:
a.) Cold Compresses
Use ice packs or cold compresses on the impacted areas for at least ten minutes. This is key in reducing TMJ symptoms of swelling and inflammation.
b.) Meditation and Yoga
Meditation and yoga are essentials in facilitating deep relaxation and healing. In addition, specialists have recommended other relaxation techniques, such as deep breathing and guided imagery. These techniques have shown promising results in reducing anxiety and stress linked to the temporomandibular disorder.
c.) Self-massage
It’s a great idea to hire a professional therapist if you lack the essential skills of massage. Massaging the neck, jaw, and temples can reduce stress and relax the muscles contributing to this syndrome. Use essential and quality oils during the massage session to improve the healing process.
d.) Avoid hard foods
Hard foods such as hard candies and nuts can strain the jaw muscles while chewing. Lifestyle changes should be emphasized, such as avoiding chewing gums and reducing chewy foods in the diet. Soft foods are essential because they help your jaw relax, thus relieving TMJ pains.
e.) TMJ exercises
Temporomandibular exercises include goldfish exercises, relaxed jaw exercise, chin tucks, resisted opening and closing of the mouth, tongue up exercise, forward jaw movement, and side to side jaw movement.
Conclusion
Above is a piece of comprehensive information about what you should know about TMJ syndrome.