The temporomandibular joint (alternatively known as the TMJ), is a hinge type of joint formed by the mandible (below) and the skull (above). The mandible typically slides against the skull to create the movements that are needed during speech and eating. There are a number of conditions that may affect this joint and interfere with the performance of the two functions. These include painful chewing, deep joint pain and a locked jaw and so on. There are several modalities of TMJ treatment Atlanta patients need to know.
The cause of TMJ disorders is yet to be clearly established. However there are a number of theories that have been advanced. A shock absorbing disk found between the jaw bone and the skull may become displaced from its normal position and lead to wear and tear of the bones. The joint may also be damaged by inflammatory conditions such as osteoarthritis. For the more acute cases, blunt force trauma appears to be the main predisposing event.
For reasons that are yet to become clear, the condition is seen most commonly among young adult women aged 20 to 40 years. However, the problem may be seen at any age. Once you notice symptoms that suggest an underlying problem, make an effort to visit your dentist or primary doctor. The doctor will first take a medical history focusing on the nature or the symptoms and whether there has been a predisposing event. A physical examination is then conducted.
The therapies for the condition are categorized into two types: conservative (non-surgical) and surgical. The commonest conservative option is the use of medical drugs. Many of these drugs are mainly supportive treatments and not a definitive solution. They include sedatives, muscle relaxants, antidepressant agents and pain relievers. Over the counter pain relievers are often sufficient but prescription analgesic agents may be needed on some occasions.
Non-pharmacological treatments are usually used alongside the drugs. Bite guards (oral splints), minimize grinding and are quite useful for persons that have to deal with constant jaw pain. The exact mechanism through which they function is not well understood. Physical therapies also feature in the list of non-pharmacological, conservative options. They include jaw stretching, heat and cold therapies and massage. If the problem is due to anxiety, counseling will be helpful.
Invasive interventions are only considered if the conservative methods have failed or when the interventions are deemed to be beneficial from the very beginning. Arthrocentesis is a technique in which a needle is directed into the joint space and used to aspirate debris and inflammatory products. The result of this is a reduction in the pressure exerted on the tissues. Open surgery is usually prescribed if an anatomical abnormality is diagnosed.
Recurrent cases can be managed using self-help remedies. The remedies are aimed at reducing the number of episodes as well as their severity. Under this category, one of the interventions that can be undertaken with ease is the avoidance of tension related activities such as constant chewing, gnashing and teeth clenching. Diet softening may also be included so as to reduce the need for excessive chewing.
Several alternative medicine have been effective for some patients. Acupuncture is a therapy that is administered by inserting fine needles in specific regions of the body. The needles are believed to help restore the flow of life energy also known as qi. When the flow is restored, any diseases or medical conditions that a subject may have are cured. Another commonly used option is controlled breathing.
The cause of TMJ disorders is yet to be clearly established. However there are a number of theories that have been advanced. A shock absorbing disk found between the jaw bone and the skull may become displaced from its normal position and lead to wear and tear of the bones. The joint may also be damaged by inflammatory conditions such as osteoarthritis. For the more acute cases, blunt force trauma appears to be the main predisposing event.
For reasons that are yet to become clear, the condition is seen most commonly among young adult women aged 20 to 40 years. However, the problem may be seen at any age. Once you notice symptoms that suggest an underlying problem, make an effort to visit your dentist or primary doctor. The doctor will first take a medical history focusing on the nature or the symptoms and whether there has been a predisposing event. A physical examination is then conducted.
The therapies for the condition are categorized into two types: conservative (non-surgical) and surgical. The commonest conservative option is the use of medical drugs. Many of these drugs are mainly supportive treatments and not a definitive solution. They include sedatives, muscle relaxants, antidepressant agents and pain relievers. Over the counter pain relievers are often sufficient but prescription analgesic agents may be needed on some occasions.
Non-pharmacological treatments are usually used alongside the drugs. Bite guards (oral splints), minimize grinding and are quite useful for persons that have to deal with constant jaw pain. The exact mechanism through which they function is not well understood. Physical therapies also feature in the list of non-pharmacological, conservative options. They include jaw stretching, heat and cold therapies and massage. If the problem is due to anxiety, counseling will be helpful.
Invasive interventions are only considered if the conservative methods have failed or when the interventions are deemed to be beneficial from the very beginning. Arthrocentesis is a technique in which a needle is directed into the joint space and used to aspirate debris and inflammatory products. The result of this is a reduction in the pressure exerted on the tissues. Open surgery is usually prescribed if an anatomical abnormality is diagnosed.
Recurrent cases can be managed using self-help remedies. The remedies are aimed at reducing the number of episodes as well as their severity. Under this category, one of the interventions that can be undertaken with ease is the avoidance of tension related activities such as constant chewing, gnashing and teeth clenching. Diet softening may also be included so as to reduce the need for excessive chewing.
Several alternative medicine have been effective for some patients. Acupuncture is a therapy that is administered by inserting fine needles in specific regions of the body. The needles are believed to help restore the flow of life energy also known as qi. When the flow is restored, any diseases or medical conditions that a subject may have are cured. Another commonly used option is controlled breathing.
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