How to Spot and Treat TMJ Dysfunction?

The temporomandibular joint is an important anatomical region connecting the lower jaw to the skull. The head of the mandibular bone and the mandibular fossa of the temporal bone are distinguished as constituent elements. In the TMJ, a disk fuses with the capsule, which divides the cavity into two sections.

Temporomandibular joint dysfunction is a common pathology in gnathology. To prevent the development of complications, the TMJ disorder treatment should be carried out when the first symptoms of the disease appear.

The Symptoms of TMJ Dysfunction

The main diagnostic criteria on the basis of which TMJ dysfunction is diagnosed include:

• The emergence of sound phenomena: One of the common complaints among patients is the appearance of clicks coming from the joint, which can be caused by opening the mouth, chewing, or yawning. In most cases, the sound is barely audible to the patient. Rarely a click can be loud, so others can hear it. TMJ dysfunction, the symptoms of which are associated with sound effects, can also be manifested by crunching, crepitus, and popping sounds.


• Violation of motor activity in the joint: This condition is called blockage or locking of the jaw. Movements during the opening of the mouth become uneven, and in some cases, the patient needs to learn to find a position in which the joint will open freely. This requires moving the jaw up or down and to the sides.


• The development of pain syndrome: Since pain can be localized, it is often confused with cervical osteochondrosis, trigeminal neuralgia, otitis media, or arthritis in the temporomandibular joint. Its strengthening is observed during palpation in the zone of masticatory, temporal, hyoid, cervical, and sternocleidomastoid muscles. The pain may radiate to the teeth, ears, frontal or occipital region.


• Dizziness.


• Intermittent tinnitus.


• Photophobia.


• Sleep disturbance with frequent awakenings.

TMJ dysfunction, the symptoms of which are mild, may not be detected for a long time as patients do not attach importance to the primary manifestations.

Gnathology and Functional Diagnostics of the TMJ

Gnathology and functional diagnostics of the TMJ allow for assessing its biomechanics in normal and pathological conditions. With the help of additional studies, it is possible to identify the cause that initiates various symptoms of the disease in the patient and select a plan of therapeutic measures based on it.

Modern gnathology and functional diagnostics of the TMJ allow for solving the problems of malocclusion and eliminating the developing deformation of the teeth. TMJ dysfunction, with its now carefully developed diagnosis, is eliminated with the help of orthopedic methods.

Temporomandibular Joint Dysfunction - Treatment Methods

If dysfunction of the temporomandibular joint is detected, treatment begins with limiting physical activity in the affected area. To do this, it is recommended to limit conversations, and chewing solid food with the inclusion of soups, mashed potatoes, and other liquid foods in the diet.

Medications are used to eliminate or reduce the severity of pain. The following may be prescribed:

• Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs. They reduce pain, swelling, and inflammation;


• Antidepressants. These funds are indicated for patients with severe symptoms, accompanied by disability or worsening sleep;


• Sedatives that improve sleep quality and reduce irritability;


• Botulinum therapy. The mechanism of its action is aimed at reducing facial expressions and slowing down the transmission of nerve impulses;


• Joint blockade with corticosteroids. With a long-term dysfunction of the temporomandibular joint, its damage is observed, requiring the restoration of surfaces.

Of the non-drug methods of treatment used:

• Massage - aimed at reducing the severity of spasms of muscle fibers;


• Physiotherapy - the most effective methods include laser therapy and electrophoresis with medications.

Dental treatments include:

• Shaving of teeth, as well as filling material that violates the closure of the jaws;


• Prosthetic procedures;


• Braces, orthopedic retainers, and mouth guards are used to restore the bite.

To repair the temporomandibular joint, treatment may be surgical. Surgical methods include myotomy of muscle fibers, as well as condylotomy of the head of the mandible. With pronounced changes in the articular bag, arthroplasty is possible.