What are the most common TMJ pathologies?
The most common pathologies of the temporomandibular joint (TMJ) are those that are purely muscular or myofascial (bruxism) and those intrinsic to the joint itself (dislocations, disc displacements, blockages, etc.).
What are the causes?
Some of the most common causes are anxiety, stress, bruxism, a bad bite… To solve it, it is necessary to get in the hands of a professional and try to lead a relaxed life.
In most cases, the main causes of pain in the temporomandibular joint are usually trauma, increased friction or functional overload due to a bad bite.
There can be many factors, so we recommend a consultation for an assessment and to be able to propose solutions based on the problem.
How can the pain of TMJ disorders be relieved?
To eliminate the pain definitively it is necessary to go to the dentist to see where the problem is and find a solution at its source.
The use of anti-inflammatory or antibiotics only helps to cover the pain, but does not solve it. At the Peydro Clinic we usually treat these cases with invisible orthodontics, without having to undergo orthognathic surgery.
Contrary to what many patients may believe, orthodontics, as long as there is a good treatment plan behind it, allows us to move the bone into its correct position, not just the teeth.
How do they affect routine and sleep routine?
Sometimes TMJ pain can prevent us from leading a normal life. Some of the most frequent symptoms in people with temporomandibular joint problems are usually:
- Bruxism
- Jaw pain
- Crunching when chewing
- Head, neck and back pain
- Jaw locking
Obviously the fact of having pain influences our daily life and, with it, our rest. Feeling pain is not something normal, which is why we should always turn to a dentist to try to find a solution.
When is it necessary to see a specialist?
Whenever there is pain. If our jaw creaks when chewing or if our head, neck and back ache is not normal.
Whether you have a blockage in the joint and feel difficulties when opening and closing the mouth, as if you feel severe pain in the TMJ, jaw or ear you should go for consultation.
What treatments will be the most appropriate?
At Clínica Peydro Herrero we treat these cases with invisible orthodontics, without having to undergo complex surgery or extractions. Now, in practically 99% of cases, it is not necessary to undergo orthognathic surgery as was the case several years ago.
Invisible orthodontics can be combined with certain relaxation exercises, which help us to relax the jaw, although it will depend on each clinical case.