Temporo-Mandibular Joint Syndrome (TMJ)
Temporo-Mandibular Joint Syndrome (TMJ) Causes
Trauma ? microtrauma (internal like bruxism) and macrotrauma (external like punch to the jaw) Ostheoarthritis Rheumatoid arthritis
Temporo-Mandibular Joint Syndrome (TMJ) Definition
TMJ syndrome is used to refer to the problems occurring in the temporomandibular joint which is the joint of the jaw and the tendons, muscles, ligaments, blood vessels and other tissues related with the joint. It is also referred to as disc displacement where in the articular disc is not in place.
Temporo-Mandibular Joint Syndrome (TMJ) Diagnosis
Diagnosis can be difficult for TMJ syndrome because it can imitate other disorders. The physician will have to check the patient's face and perform physical examination and study the patient's medical history. Scans such as CT scan and MRI are ordered to view the bony detail of the joint and the soft tissues of the joint which includes the disc. Other types of imaging used are tomography, and dental x-rays.
Temporo-Mandibular Joint Syndrome (TMJ) Symptoms and Signs
Although there are several symptoms of the TMJ syndrome these symptoms might be experienced by an individual, which are eye problems (eyes are bloodshot, vision is blurred, pain above, below and behind the eye; pressure behind the eyes, sensitivity of light and eyes is watering), headache problems such as forehead pain, migraines, cluster headaches, sinus type headache, sensitive to touch and headaches felt at the back of the head. Other symptoms also include teeth and gum problems such as clenching during the day or night, tooth pain, grinding teeth and sensitive teeth. Face, mouth, cheek and chin problems, ear, throat, neck and shoulder problems.
Temporo-Mandibular Joint Syndrome (TMJ) Treatment
There is no particular cure for TMJ syndrome so physicians concentrate on reducing pain and improving function. The type of treatment depends on the specialist visited a dentist will concentrate on the relationship of the teeth and the jaw and he might make a splint that aids in guiding your bite in the right direction. An oral and maxillofacial surgeon performs surgeries in severe cases. They may also perform several procedures such as arthocentesis, arthroscopy,arthroplasty or total joint replacement.