Temporomandibular Joint (TMJ) Syndrome

Temporomandibular (tem-po-ro-man-DIB-yoo-lar) joint syndrome refers to symptoms caused by problems with the joint that joins the jawbone to the skull.

What Is Temporomandibular Joint Syndrome?

The temporomandibular joint (TMJ) is the name for the jaw joint, one of which is located on each side of the head. These joints connect the Iower jaw, or mandible (MAN-di-bul), to the temporal (TEM-po-ral) bone, which is one of a pair of bones that form the lower part of the skull. The temporomandibular joint acts as both a hinge and a gliding joint; together the pair of joints allow the jaw to open and close and to slide from side to side.

Temporomandibular joint syndrome refers to cases in which the joints do not function properly. This syndrome may cause pain, difficulty opening and closing the mouth, or problems with chewing and swallowing, as well as other symptoms.

What Are the Causes of Temporomandibular Joint Syndrome?

TMJ syndrome can be caused by dislocated temporomandibular joints or by inherited problems with the joints. In the condition called bruxism (BRUK-siz-um), some people grind their teeth during sleep or times of stress, which can lead to TMJ syndrome. Malocclusion (mal-o-KLOO-zhun), when teeth do not fit together properly; whiplash injuries from car accidents; being hit on the head or jaw; and arthritis are other causes of TMJ syndrome.

What Are the Symptoms of Temporomandibular Joint Syndrome?

Because the TMJ is located near many important nerves going between the brain and many parts of the body, the symptoms can be felt in parts of the body that do not seem related to the TMJ. Millions of Americans report some of the following symptoms:

* Frequent headaches

* Pain in the face, sinuses, cars, cyes, teeth, neck, and back

* Clicking sounds in the jaw

* Difficulty in opening or closing the mouth

* Trouble chewing or swallowing

How Is Temporomandibular Joint Syndrome Diagnosed and Treated?

Doctors or dentists ask the patient to describe the symptoms and then they examine the patient. Sometimes, x-rays and MRIs are used to examine the joints to diagnose TMJ syndrome.

Hot compresses and over-the-counter pain medications may help relieve TMJ syndrome. Stress management and mouth guards worn at night can help eliminate teeth grinding and its effects.

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