Temporo Mandibular joint are located just in front of the ear and they form the joint on which the lower jaw articulates to the skull. The temporomandibular joint is a synovial joint i.e. joints that connect bones and allow movement. The bony surfaces of the TMJ are covered by cartilage. The TM joint is lubricated and well nourished by the synovial fluid. The bony surfaces are separated by a disc made of cartilage called as meniscus. This disc acts as a cushion to absorb stress and helps in the smooth movement of the condyle while opening and closing the mouth.
TMJ disorders are a collection of conditions that are usually associated with pain or discomfort of the joint or its neighbouring tissues, hampering the movements of the lower jaw with or without clicking in the joint during function. These problems are seen with adults and stress is reported to be a precipitating factor. Jaw joint disorders can also be due to various diseases e.g. arthritis, injury to the joint or habits like clenching or grinding teeth. Improper alignment of teeth or jaws may also lead to TMJ disorders. Stress and emotional trauma may also be a major contributing factor.
Treatment for some TMJ disorders:
a. Medications to relieve pain or relax the muscles
b. Resting the TM joint by eating soft food and not using chewing gum, avoiding opening the mouth and yawning too widely.
c. Correcting the bite, teeth and jaw alignment
d. Relaxation along with stress-reducing therapies
e. Splints or ‘bite guards’ to cover the teeth at night to reduce clenching & grinding
f. Physiotherapy treatments and gentle jaw exercises
g. Treatment of any underlying causes such as arthritis
h. Intra-articular injection: Occasionally, a conservative treatment for a painful TM joint may include a joint injection called Intra-Auricular injection.Commonly, a RINGER lactate is injected into the affected joint to relieve symptoms of TMJ disorders.This treatment option is considered only in selected cases based of the severity of the disease and the patient’s general health conditions.
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