Health Topics for General Health

TJM (temporomandibular joint syndrome)

Temporomandibular joint syndrome (TMJ) or temporomandibular disorders are a group of problems that affect the jaw joint and the muscles that are used to chew. TMJ problems are often painful, though the pain does not mean there is a serious problem. The pain occurs where the jaw meets the skull, just in front of the ear on each side of the face.

TMJ syndrome can affect both men and women, but is more common in women. The known causes of TMJ are an injury, such as a blow to the jaw, and arthritis. Some people think that clinching or grinding the teeth, gum chewing, and teeth that do not fit together cause TMJ, but there is no proof of this. Arthritis can start in the jaw joint from wear and tear on the joint. It is possible that stress may cause the clenching and grinding.

The most common symptom of TMJ is pain in the jaw joint. The pain may also go into the face, neck or shoulders. The pain is usually on one side and dull, but gets worse during the day. Clicking, popping, grating, or grinding sounds when moving the jaw are common. However, people who do not have TMJ may also have these sounds when moving the jaw. There may be trouble moving the lower jaw, or sometimes it is not possible to open the mouth, or close the mouth. The bite may be uncomfortable, or there may be a sudden change in the way the teeth fit together. Headaches, dizziness, hearing problems, and earache may all be related to TMJ.

The symptoms are often mistaken for migraine headache, sinus trouble, ear infection, or toothache. So, during the exam, the healthcare provider will need to know exactly where the jaw hurts; how long there have been symptoms; what is being done when the symptoms occur; or if there has been an injury or dental work recently. The jaw will be examined for tenderness and to see how the jaw moves. An x-ray may also be taken.

Most problems with TMJ get better over a period of time. In fact, many go away without any treatment. The goal with treatment is to help the pain go away, and help the way the jaw moves. Treatments that do not cost a lot of money, and do not cause a permanent change are usually the best treatments. The first things done for TMJ are eating soft foods, applying heat or cold, and avoiding jaw movements such as wide yawning, loud singing, or gum chewing. If heat is used, the heating pad should be on low for 20 minutes 4 to 8 times a day. For cold, a cloth-covered ice pack can be put on the jaw for 20 minutes 4 to 8 times a day. The healthcare provider may suggest using non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs). Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) should be taken with food or milk to prevent stomach upset. NSAIDs should not be taken by anyone who has been diagnosed with asthma, ulcer disease, or a bleeding disorder. Taking NSAIDs increases the risk of bleeding with trauma, dental work, surgery, or if taking blood thinners (anticoagulants).

Other treatments may include taking muscle relaxants for a few days, relaxation techniques, learning ways to have less stress, or a bite plate to stop tooth grinding and clenching. Special gentle exercises may be tried that stretch the muscles and help with relaxation.

Surgery is rarely necessary, and should be avoided if at all possible. If surgery, is suggested, a second opinion, should be obtained, preferably from a healthcare provider who specializes in TMJ syndrome.

Last Reviewed 2005

Disclaimer: This content is reviewed periodically and is subject to change as new health information becomes available. The information provided is intended to be informative and educational and is not a replacement for professional medical evaluation, advice, diagnosis or treatment by a healthcare professional.

HIL File GHEA3523.RF2 VRS# 4588 Data Version 7.0 Copyright 1998, 2000, 2002-2003 McKesson Health Solutions LLC. All rights reserved.