TMJ Disorder Treatment in India
These are the disorders associated with TMJ i.e. Temporomandibular Joint. This is a very important hinge type of joint that allows the complex movements necessary for life. TMJ is formed by the relation of our Mandible to the base of our skull. It is located in the front of the ear on the side of our face. This system of Temporomandibular joint is made up of TMJ, teeth and soft tissue. The soft tissues comprise of jaw muscles and the nerves associated with them.
Any disharmony caused in the functioning of the complex system of Muscles, Bones and Joints may cause Temporomandibular joint disorder.
Symptoms of TMJ Disorder Treatment
Since these TMJ is associated with both hard and soft structures the symptoms can be involving the different parts of the assembly.
Soft Tissue Symptoms (Myofascial pain)
- Headaches/ Migraines
- Pain spreading behind the eyes, on the face, shoulder, neck or back
- Pain or ringing in the Ears (not caused by infection of the inner ear canal)
- Gum bleeds despite of god oral hygiene
- Unexplained TOOTH ACHES
- VERTIGO/DIZINESS
- NUMBNESS OR TINGLING feelings in the fingers
Hard Tissue Symptoms
- Internal derangement of the jaw joint and other degenerative joint diseases.
- Jaw discomfort or soreness, often noticed in the morning or late afternoon.
- Clicking, popping, or other joint sounds during jaw movement.
- Limited or restricted mouth opening (trismus).
- Clenching or grinding of teeth (bruxism), leading to generalised attrition and neck erosions of teeth.
- Teeth sensitivity without any underlying oral disease.
- Disharmony in the way the upper and lower teeth fit together, causing inefficient or uncomfortable chewing.
Causes for TMJ
In most cases of TMD, the underlying issue is a disrupted balance between the upper and lower teeth, commonly caused by occlusal interferences in which certain teeth meet before the rest. These interferences can arise from worn or damaged tooth surfaces, missing or loose teeth that alter bite patterns, or displacement and improper movement of the joint’s disk. Other factors—such as direct trauma to the jaw, arthritis, infections, tumors, and gradual degeneration of the joint cartilage—can further aggravate the condition. Collectively, these problems place continuous stress on the temporomandibular joint, resulting in persistent pain, restricted movement, and long-term functional difficulties.
Diagnosis for TMJ Disorders
A thorough evaluation for TMD begins with a detailed medical and dental history, followed by a physical examination in which the dentist assesses the jaw joints, associated muscles, and the range of jaw movement. An intraoral examination is also performed to check for missing, misaligned, or rotated teeth that may be contributing to the problem. To confirm the diagnosis and understand the extent of joint involvement, imaging tests such as OPG, CBCT, or MRI may be recommended.
TMJ Disorder Treatment in India
Treatment of TMJ is tailored to the patient’s symptoms and primarily focuses on addressing the underlying causes, which may be dental, muscular, or related to stress. Common approaches include the use of a deprogrammer or night guard to reduce strain on the jaw, and splints or orthotic appliances that help guide the jaw, muscles, and ligaments into proper alignment. Corrective dental treatments can restore proper bite relationships, while stress management techniques help reduce muscle tension that contributes to discomfort. In some cases, arthrocentesis may be performed to relieve joint inflammation, and the application of hot or cold packs can help reduce pain and swelling. Surgery is reserved as a last resort, only considered when the jaw cannot be stabilized through other conservative measures.