Tmj Disorder - Are You Suffering From This All Too Common Jaw Disorder?

TMJ is a disorder that causes millions of Americans distress

. People of all ages from pre-teens to seniors are affected by TMJ disorder. TMJ Disorder relates to the muscles of the jaw and the joints that help with chewing.

The temporomandibular joints are commonly known as the TM joints. They are a complex system that connect the jawbone to the skull. They are placed in front of the ears. Because it is a complex system it is all to common for distress to happen. When the system begins to break down you will experience a clicking or popping sensation when the mouth in open or closed.

This joint is used the most often in the body. In fact, it cycles over 2,000 times each day. Because of the extreme usage, the jaw muscle can suffer extreme and consistent pain often extending into the face, neck and shoulders.

When your TM joints are not working properly, you may experience any of these symptoms:

* pronounced noises associated with jaw movement (clicking, popping or crunching)

* pain when you fully open your jaw

* limited range of motion

* grinding or clenching your teeth

* pain in the facial muscles and muscle fatigue in that area

* ear pain that is not associated with infections

* occasional "locking" of the aw

* ear ringing

* frequent headaches - Research has revealed the number one symptom of a TM Disorder as headache.

A TMJ disorder may develop for any number of reasons:

* lost or crooked teeth

* overbite

* malocclusion or a bad bite (Teeth that don't fit together properly)

* degenerative arthritis

* a variety of head or neck injuries like whiplash

* stress causing clenched teeth (bruxism) and muscle spasms

There are many other types of pain that typically mimic a TMJ disorder. Because of this you must have a complete and careful dental and medical exam to come up with an accurate conclusion. Upon examination, if your condition point as causes other than the teeth you will probably be referred to another member of your health care team: a physician, chiropractor, physical therapist, etc.

If a malocclusion is detected, and the vast majority of TMJ disorders are the result of malocclusion, your teeth may require some restoration to improve the alignment of your "bite" and TM joints. This would be preceded by provisionally aligning your head/jaw in the correct posture by means of an orthopedic appliance.

If an orthotic is prescribed, you may be instructed to wear it during the course of your day (24/7). Additionally, treatment for immediate relief of pain and muscle spasm may be prescribed along with muscle relaxers, pain killers, heat compresses or ice packs, or micro-current electrical stimulation. Posture correction, specialized exercises to improve jaw muscle flexibility and strength and soft diet may also be prescribed.

To relieve stress and anxiety, biofeedback, relaxation techniques or psychological counseling may be employed. Only in "rare" cases is surgery required to correct a TMJ Disorder.

by: Rick Light

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