Temporomandibular joint (TMJ) is a movable joint that connects the jaws to the skull. It is responsible for the movement of jaws, which help us to chew, talk, yawn etc. Temporomandibular disorders (TMD) are the problems associated with the jaw and muscles of face.
- Unwanted grinding of teeth
- Movement of discs between joint
- Stress, which make the jaw muscles tight
Symptoms of TMD:
- Experience pain and tenderness in and around your face, neck, ear and shoulder
- Grating or clicking sounds in the jaw when you chew
- Swelling
- Toothaches, dizziness, hearing problems
- Uncomfortable bite
Treatment
Temporomandibular disorders can be treated effectively by temporomandibular surgeries.
- Arthrocentesis: This is a minor procedure adopted when your jaws get locked. Here damaged or dislocated bone is corrected by using special tools.
- Arthroscopy: Here surgery is done using an arthroscope, therefore it is minimally invasive and leaves only small scars.
- Open-joint surgery: This surgery is recommended for the following conditions: Presence of tumors in and around joint, wearing down of jaw joint, presence of bone chips in gums etc.
