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TMJ (Temporomandibular Joint) and FACIAL PAIN TREATMENT 

temporomandibular joint treatment

Temporomandibular Joint (TMJ) Disorders: Treatment of Jaw Pain, Teeth Grinding, and Bruxism

Symptoms such as jaw locking, teeth grinding, jaw displacement, and chronic headaches are the most prominent signs of temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders. Prodenta Dental Clinic in Ataşehir specializes in managing these problems through accurate diagnosis and multidisciplinary treatment.

What is the Temporomandibular Joint (TMJ)?

The temporomandibular joint (TMJ) is the joint located just in front of the ears that connects the lower jaw to the skull. This joint is actively used during chewing, speaking, swallowing, and yawning. The cartilage disc within the joint absorbs the incoming loads. Disorders in the muscle, disc, or bone tissue lead to TMJ disorders.

What are the symptoms of TMJ disorders?

Main symptoms:

  • Restricted jaw movement (inability to fully open the mouth)

  • Clicking, crackling, or friction sounds during jaw movements

  • Pain and fatigue in the chewing muscles.

  • The chin shifting to the side when the mouth is opened.

Other frequently accompanying symptoms include:

  • Earache and a feeling of fullness in the ear

  • Chronic headaches and migraine-like pain

  • Neck and shoulder pain

  • Dizziness and vision problems

Location and Characteristics of TME:

Location and Characteristics of the TMJ: The TMJ is located just in front of your ears, connecting the lower jaw to the skull. You can easily feel the movement of the joint when you open and close your mouth by placing your hand on this area. Your jaw movements are controlled by various chewing muscles. A cartilage disc is present in this area to ensure these movements occur smoothly. This disc helps to withstand the excessive loads placed on the joint during chewing.

What is Bruxism (Teeth Clenching/Grinding)?

  • Bruxism is the involuntary clenching or grinding of the teeth. Bruxism that occurs during sleep (sleep bruxism) originates from the central nervous system; bruxism that occurs while awake is considered a stress-related tic. It is quite common in the general population; the most prominent clinical finding is wear on the teeth.

Treatment of TMJ and Bruxism

Conservative Treatments

The vast majority of patients (85–90%) recover with conservative methods without requiring surgery.

  • Pharmacological treatment (muscle relaxants, anti-inflammatory drugs)

  • Custom-made rigid occlusal splint (night guard)

  • Physiotherapy and muscle exercises

  • Stress management and behavioral approaches

Botulinum Toxin (Botox) Application:

In severe cases of bruxism, botulinum toxin applied to the chewing muscles reduces voluntary muscle contraction, thereby relieving the load on the teeth and joints. However, the level of evidence for this treatment in the scientific literature is limited, and it may not be suitable for every case.

Surgical Treatment:

Surgical indications for TMJ treatment occur in only 1–5% of cases and are limited to definite indications such as tumors, growth abnormalities, and ankylosis. Surgery is not recommended until conservative treatments have been exhausted.

Frequently Asked Questions:

Which specialist should I consult?

In the treatment of TMJ, dentists with long-term, documented training and experience in scientific research should be preferred. A multidisciplinary approach involving neurologists, physiotherapists, and ENT specialists is adopted when necessary.

What should be considered during the treatment process?

• Reducing the load on the joints is very important. The patient should be kept away from stress. • Chewing gum and eating hard foods that strain the jaw are prohibited. • When yawning or sneezing, the mouth should not be opened excessively; the jaw should be supported with the hand. • Biting is strictly prohibited; food should be taken into the mouth in small pieces. • Chewing on one side should be avoided; food should be chewed on both sides. • In cases of severe pain, pain relievers, muscle relaxants, and anti-inflammatory drugs may be used until a doctor can be consulted.

Should I use a soft night guard?

Studies have shown that soft splints can increase chewing muscle activity. Therefore, custom-made, measured, rigid splints are preferred. For jaw pain, teeth grinding, or TMJ complaints in Ataşehir, contact Prodenta Dental Clinic.

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