Temporomandibular joint disorders encompass a group of conditions that affect our jaw joints and the muscles that aid in chewing.
Scientific studies have shown that approximately 20-30% of the population experiences this disorder, with a higher prevalence among women.
Causes of Temporomandibular Joint Disorders Include:
1. Acute Trauma (sudden impact to the jaw or facial area)
2. Chronic Trauma (intentional or unintentional teeth clenching and/or grinding)
3. Psychological stress
4. Malocclusion (improper bite)
5. Temporomandibular joint arthritis
6. Tumors related to the temporomandibular joint
Furthermore, certain systemic conditions like rheumatoid arthritis and osteoarthritis can also lead to discomfort in the jaw joints.
– Pain and tenderness in front of the ear during activities like talking, eating, and yawning.
– Feeling as if the mouth will be stuck open or closed during these activities (a sensation of locking).
– Pain and muscle spasms in the facial muscles.
– Clicking or grinding sounds in the jaw joint while opening and closing the mouth.
– Pain that radiates from the face to the head, neck, and shoulders.
– Feeling unrested and fatigued upon waking up, often accompanied by pain.
– Ringing in the ears, buzzing, dizziness.
Treatment is tailored to the underlying cause. The following methods, either individually or combined, can be employed:
1. Soft diet, avoiding excessive mouth opening.
2. Physical therapy.
3. Application of intraoral occlusal splints.
Note: Intraoral splints used to protect teeth are different from night guards. Night guards prevent damage like fractures and cracks caused by teeth grinding, whereas occlusal splints have a therapeutic effect on the jaw joint and chewing muscles.
4. Stress-reducing activities.
5. Combined use of anti-inflammatory drugs, painkillers, muscle relaxants, and sometimes low-dose antidepressants.
6. Adjustment of dental contacts.
7. Addressing tooth gaps.
8. Orthodontic treatment.
Please consult with a medical professional if you suspect you have a temporomandibular joint disorder.
When coming to your first appointment, bringing previously taken X-rays and documents related to
past treatments will provide us with detailed information about your treatment history.
The requested date and time, depending on our doctors’ availability, may vary.
Please wait for us to reach out to you for confirmation.
Özer Dental Clinic, located on Alaiye Street, one of the bustling areas of Alanya, provides dental health services with its team of expert dentists.
Dr. Özer | Hacet Neighborhood, Alaiye Street, B.Uyaroğlu Apartment, Unit: 60/A, 07400 Alanya, Antalya
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