Diseases of the temporomandibular (also called mandibular) joint represent an important part of the pathology in the maxillofacial region. The temporomandibular joint is a complex structure that provides movement of the lower jaw and is actively involved in processes such as speech, chewing and swallowing.
What are diseases of the temporomandibular joint
The temporomandibular joint connects the lower jaw to the skull and is one of the busiest joints in the human body.
Diseases of this joint may be associated with:
- disorders in the position of the articular disc
- inflammatory processes
- degenerative changes
- muscle dysfunctions
- injuries
These conditions can lead to jaw movement restriction, pain and functional impairment.
👉 Detailed on topic: Pain in the jaw - possible causes
Most common symptoms
Among the signs that may point to the presence of temporomandibular joint disease are:
Pain in the jaw area
Pain may be localized to the area in front of the ear or spread to:
- temple
- ear
- neck
- shoulders
It may intensify when chewing, speaking or opening the mouth.
Restricted mouth opening
Patients may experience difficulty opening the mouth wide or a sensation of the jaw „locking“.
Clicking or popping in the joint
When moving the jaw can be heard or felt:
- clicking
- popping
- friction
Headache and facial pain
Temporomandibular joint disorders are often associated with headaches and facial pain, which on their behalf can also be associated with a number of other conditions.
Causes of occurrence
The most common causes of temporomandibular joint disorders include:
- tendency to clench or grind teeth (bruxism)
- malocclusion
- traumas to the jaw area
- stress and muscle tension
- degenerative joint diseases
- autoimmune rheumatoid diseases
When to seek a specialist
In the presence of any of the following symptoms, it is advisable to consult a specialist:
- pain in the jaw area or in front of the ear
- restricted mouth opening
- clicking or locking of the jaw
- frequent facial or temporal headaches of unclear origin
- difficulty chewing
👉 Detailed on topic: When should we visit a maxillofacial surgeon
Timely consultation with a specialist allows refining the clinical picture, differentiating between various overlapping symptoms in the side of the face and head, as well as conducting targeted exploration in the case of specific joint problems, to make an accurate diagnosis and prescribe appropriate treatment. The latter, in turn, could be both surgical (in the more advanced stages) and conservative - medication, physiotherapy, kinetic-therapy, osteopathy, orthodontic or dental - prosthetic treatment whenever indicated and others.
The importance of early diagnosis
Early detection of temporomandibular joint disorders allows the application of more conservative and protective methods of treatment.
Making an accurate diagnosis often requires specialized tests.
👉 Detailed on topic: Investigations prior to maxillofacial surgery
Regular check-ups and attention to early symptoms play a key role in maintaining good health.
Author:
Bulgarian Association of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery