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Home » Preventive » TMJ
TMJ Disorder
Temporomandibular joint disorder, also called "TMJ,'' affects the
joints in front of the ears that serve as hinges for your jaw. In TMJ, one or both of these joints
become swollen and painful. The problem is more common in women than in men.
TMJ is usually caused by tight jaw muscles and grinding of the teeth. Other causes
include injury to the jaw, stress, poorly fitting dentures, and arthritis. The condition
is sometimes the result of a "bite'' problem in which your upper and lower jaw are
not lined up correctly. A family history of the disorder puts you at greater risk of
developing it.
You'll typically note a dull, aching pain below the ear on one side of the jaw. This
pain will get worse when you yawn. Pain may move to your ear, head, or shoulder. You
may hear a clicking or popping noise when you open your mouth. Your mouth may not open
all the way, and your teeth may not line up when you close your mouth.
Your dentist may take x-rays of your mouth and feel the action of the joint while you
open and close your mouth. You'll probably be given a prescription to relieve pain and
swelling. If the problem is serious, you may need surgery.
"For teeth to feel natural and healthy when talking, eating, and smiling the TMJ’s(jaw joints) must be stable."
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