Temporomandibular Muscle and Joint Disorders

Temporomandibular Muscle and Joint Disorders

Temporomandibular muscle and joint (TMJ) disorders are a group of conditions affecting the jaw joint and the muscles controlling jaw movement, leading to discomfort and impaired function including myofascial pain and muscles spasm of the jaw muscles as well as disk disorders and arthritis of the temporomandibular joint. Common symptoms include jaw pain, muscle and joint tenderness, difficulty chewing, clicking or popping noises during jaw movement, jaw locking, headaches, oral, and facial pain. These disorders can stem from various causes, such as jaw injuries, arthritis, teeth grinding (bruxism and clenching), misalignment of the jaw or teeth, and increased stress or anxiety, which may heighten muscle tension. Treatment options often include a combination of preventive self-care techniques, physical therapy, cognitive-behavioral therapy to reduce causes, intra-oral stabilization splints to protect the jaw and prevent grinding, injections, and in some cases, surgery. A multidisciplinary approach is frequently employed for effective management, tailored to the individual’s specific symptoms, diagnoses, and underlying causes.