Syndrome of the Temporomandibular Joint (TMJ)

Approximately more than 10 million people in the United States suffer from dysfunction of the TMJ by its acronym in English or temporomandibular joint syndrome. This disease affects the function of the temporomandibular joint. This joint is located right in front of the ears and connects the mandible with the skull. People who suffer from this condition experience intense pain when the mouth opens and closes. Currently in dentistry is very little knowledge about the causes of this condition, but are still conducting studies to understand and treat it correctly.

The causes could be:

1-Injury to the jaw area of the face
2-Excessive tension in the jaw muscles
3-Poor alignment of teeth in the upper and lower jaw and
4-Imbalance in the movement of the mandibular articulation
5-Irregular displacement of mandibular joint
6-Inflammation in the joint
7-Excess of movements or very little movement of the joint

There are several risk factors that increase the likelihood of suffering from TMJ syndrome. Women have a higher risk for this condition. It is more likely to occur among 30 to 50 years. Besides people who abuse these joints creak as the teeth or bite with exaggerated at high risk of developing it. Another risk factor is suffering from arthritis or fibromyalgia.

Symptoms of TMJ include:

1-Pain in the face
2-Headache
3-Earache
4-Sore neck, shoulders or back
5-Difficulty opening mouth
6-Swelling in the temporomandibular joint
7-Sounds by moving the jaw

Treatment:

Change your diet to a soft food to reduce the effort and pain when chewing. You can also use cold compresses or warm and to restrict the movement of the jaw. To alleviate this condition can be used several tips that can help minimize the symptoms and experience fewer aches and pains.

1-Relax your facial muscles
2-Avoid sleeping on his side or low
3-Chew with wheels and with no front teeth
4-Do not grind your teeth or eating the nails
5-Do not rest your chin in his hand
6-Apply cold or heat, that it is better
7-Monitor your symptoms
8-Avoid or reduce stress
9-Avoid talking unnecessarily
10-Listen to soothing music at bedtime