TMJ Treatment

Temporomandibular joint (TMJ) is another name of jaw joint, that exists on each side of the face in front of the ear. Each side of the face has TMJ. This joint is the most used joint in the body. It is prone to medical problems that may or may not require surgery as this is the most frequently used joint in the body. The TMJ is functional when jaw moves during speech, swallowing, yawning eating etc. TMJ comprises a fibrous disc in between two bony surfaces moving on each other. This disc protects the bony parts from wear and tear and takes the brunt of it all. TMJ disorder is the disease of joint that connects lower jaw to the skull. TMJ problem occur due to injury, aging and poor dental behaviour.

Problems related with TMJ (Temporomandibular dysfunction) The most common complaints experienced by a patient would be

• Clicking sound on opening the mouth.
• Pain in or around the ears.
• Pain along the neck sides.
• Pain in the upper jaw radiating to forehead and eyebrows.
• Inability to open the mouth or lock jaw.
• Pain in opening the mouth.

Symptoms of TMJ disorderCommon symptoms of TMJ disorder include-

• Limited movement of jaw.
• Earache and headache.
• Loose teeth.
• Clenching or grinding.
• Facial pain- Ringing congestion in ears.
• Pain in joints during hard chewing.

Groups of TMJ disorders

1. Muscle disorders
2. Joint derangement disorders
3. Degenerative joint disorders

TMJ Treatment TMJ syndrome can be cured by a diet of soft food, anti inflammatory medicine or a worm compress. The treatment includes-

• Jaw rest.
• Heat and ice therapy These assist in reducing muscle tension and spasm.
• Medication Anti-inflammatory medicine such as aspirin, ibuprofen, naproxen or steroids can help controlling inflammation.
• Physical Therapy Passively opening and closing of the jaw and electrical stimulation help to decrease pain.
• Stress Management It assists in reducing muscle tension.
• Occlusal therapy A custom-made acrylic appliance which fits over teeth is commonly prescribed for nights.
• Correction of bite abnormalities Corrective dental therapy like orthodontics is required to correct an abnormal bite.
• Surgery It is the last resort where medical therapy fails.
• TMJ arthroscopy, ligament lightening, joint restructuring and joint replacement are considered in most severe cases.

TMJ Treatment in India In India world class dental treatment is available at very economic rates as compared to US and Europe. Hence medical tourism is on rise in India and many International patients are flocking towards India for dental treatment. The cost of non surgical TMJ treatment in US is around 100$ where as it very less in India. The expertise in TMJ treatment in India includes

Dr Anshu Gupta’s advanced dental care centre, Chandigarh
Dr Kathurias dental clinic, Delhi
Dr Garg’s multispeciality dental center, N Delhi

TMJ disorders are group of complex problems with many possible causes and there are many treatment options for TMJ disorders.