Temporomandibular joint problems

TMJ problems are usually comprehensively diagnosed and treated by an oral and maxillofacial surgeon (OMF). The first step is a detailed examination of the temporomandibular joint, the masticatory muscles and the teeth. Imaging procedures such as X-ray, MRI or CT can be used to identify the exact cause of the symptoms.

Treatment depends on the diagnosis and can include various approaches:

1. Conservative therapy: This includes physiotherapy, special exercises, bite splints to relieve pressure on the temporomandibular joint and medication such as painkillers or muscle relaxants.
2. Minimally invasive procedures: In cases of acute inflammation or fluid accumulation, a temporomandibular joint puncture or irrigation (arthrocentesis) can be performed to alleviate symptoms.
3. Surgical interventions: In severe cases where conservative methods do not help, surgical correction may be necessary. This can involve repairing or replacing structures in the joint.

The aim of the treatment is to relieve pain, improve the mobility of the jaw and restore functionality.

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1. chronic pain

• Increased pain: Untreated temporomandibular joint pain can worsen over time. What was initially an occasional pulling or pinching sensation can become chronic, permanent pain that does not subside even during periods of rest.
• Radiation of pain: The pain can spread to other areas of the face, neck, shoulders and even the back. Patients may experience persistent muscle tension and pain in these regions.

2. limited jaw mobility

• Restricted movement: Chronic temporomandibular joint pain can lead to restricted jaw mobility. Opening the mouth, chewing or speaking can become painful and difficult. In severe cases, a complete blockage of the temporomandibular joint can occur, which considerably restricts everyday functions.
• Difficulty chewing and speaking: Pain and movement problems can make it difficult to chew food, especially harder or tougher foods. Speaking can also be uncomfortable or painful, making communication difficult.

3. dental damage and problems

• Teeth grinding (bruxism): Jaw joint pain can cause those affected to unconsciously grind their teeth or clench them hard. These uncontrolled movements lead to tooth damage such as abrasion, cracks or teeth breaking, which require additional treatment.
• Incorrect loading of the teeth: Due to the constant misalignment of the jaw joint, the bite may be altered in such a way that individual teeth are overloaded, which can lead to dental problems in the long term.

4. muscle tension and headaches

• Tension in the masticatory muscles: Untreated temporomandibular joint pain often leads to chronic tension in the masticatory muscles and the adjacent muscles in the neck and shoulders. This can lead to muscle stiffness and restricted mobility.
• Headaches: A frequent companion of TMJ pain is tension headaches or migraines, which are caused by excessive tension in the chewing muscles and malfunction of the temporomandibular joint.

5. temporomandibular joint arthrosis (degenerative changes)

• Wear and tear of the temporomandibular joint: Chronic temporomandibular joint pain that is left untreated can lead to wear and tear of the joint cartilage, which is known as temporomandibular joint arthrosis. These degenerative changes lead to permanent joint damage, which becomes more painful and difficult to treat with age.
• Misaligned jaws: Long-term incorrect loading of the temporomandibular joint can lead to a change in the position of the jaw, causing an incorrect bite position. This can further increase the pressure on the joint and exacerbate other symptoms.

6. psychological stress

• Stress and anxiety: Chronic pain and the associated limitations can lead to emotional stress, anxiety and even depression. People who suffer from TMJ pain often experience a reduced quality of life and feel frustrated or helpless.
• Sleep disorders: Pain in the temporomandibular joint can also affect sleep. Many sufferers have difficulty lying comfortably or relaxing their head, which leads to insomnia or restless sleep.

7. reduced quality of life

• Social isolation: Chronic TMJ pain can lead to social isolation as sufferers avoid activities such as talking, laughing or eating together to avoid pain. This can have a significant impact on social life.
• Occupational restrictions: When TMJ pain leads to limited jaw mobility or chronic headaches, it can also affect professional activities, especially when communication, meetings or even physical labor is required.

8. long-term joint damage

• Temporomandibular joint degeneration: Without treatment, joint damage can worsen and lead to complete destruction of the joint cartilage. In extreme cases, this may require surgical intervention to preserve the function of the temporomandibular joint.

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