Pop,Pop, Click, Click Oh What A Relief It.....ISN'T? Info On TMJ Disorders

We often get asked " Do you have TMJ?" the answer should always be, "Yes, I have two." TMJ stands for tempromandibular joint. We have one on each side of our head just in front of our ears. This joint is one of the most used and complicated joints in our bodies, Thankfully it is one of the most forgiving and adaptable joints! Not a simple hinge or a simple ball joint, ITS BOTH! The joint type is called ....get ready for this SAT word... ginglymoarthrodial joint. Your TMJs rotate AND translate in order to provide full range of motion of your jaw. This joint has three major parts, the temporal bone (skull), The condylar head (mandible) and the articular disc. When working well, the joint is quiet, smooth, full range of motion with no pain. When its not working well we can experience clicking, popping, locking, decrease in jaw mobility, pain and more.

Schematic of the TMJ : Zhang, S., Yap, A.U.J. & Toh, W.S.

There are two types of trauma our TMJs can sustain. Either we experience MACROtrauma (blunt force, acute quick trauma) or MICROtrauma (smaller repetitious traumas- think clenching/grinding/habitual motions). In both these cases the symptoms experienced are related to the articular disc's starting location, ability to get back into proper location and inflammation.

If you experience any clicking or popping it tells your dentist that there have been changes to the joint that you have adapted favorably to. IF you have pain in either the joint or muscles, new click/pop or changes in your bite it means you have NOT adapted favorably and management options should be considered.

The fabrication of a bite splint (night guard)

Management usually involves a bite splint ( most people call them night guards) that are custom fit for you, and analgesics to minimize pain and inflammation. Your symptoms may start to minimize in as little as 2 days once treatment is initiated. In more severe cases it can take a bit longer.

Dr.Fallon is very well versed in how the TMJ works and also how to manage a myriad of TMJ issues. If you experience any symptoms that are new to you, Just let her know at your next appointment and you'll be on the path to joint stability!