Why Does the Temporomandibular Joint (TMJ) Hurt, and How Can You Treat It?

The temporomandibular joint (TMJ) is a critical part of our anatomy, connecting the lower jaw (mandible) to the skull.

We rely on this joint for essential functions such as chewing, speaking, and even yawning. When something goes wrong with the TMJ, it can lead to discomfort, pain, and even limited movement.

In this post, we’ll dive into the common causes of jaw joint pain, how to recognize the symptoms, and what you can do to alleviate or prevent issues.

Common TMJ Problems

Several conditions can cause TMJ disorders, leading to pain and dysfunction. Here are some of the most common ones:

1. Myofascial Pain

Myofascial pain involves discomfort in the muscles surrounding the jaw joint, often due to accumulated tension from stress, overuse, or injury.

This pain can extend to the neck, shoulders, back, and skull, affecting TMJ function. Once the muscle tension is relieved, TMJ movement typically returns to normal.

2. Arthritis

Arthritis affects joints throughout the body, and the TMJ is no exception. Both rheumatoid arthritis and osteoarthritis can cause stiffness, pain, and difficulty opening the mouth. Arthritis of the jaw joint can result from systemic conditions or trauma to the jaw.

3. Ankylosis

TMJ ankylosis is the fusion of joint bones, leading to stiffness and limited mouth movement. This condition can be congenital or develop after trauma or infection. While ankylosis may not always cause pain, it can restrict jaw movement and create facial asymmetry.

4. Intra-articular Alterations

This is the most common cause of TMJ dysfunction. It occurs when internal joint components, such as ligaments or the articular disc, become misaligned. You may hear clicking when you open your mouth, and chewing can become painful.

5. Hypermobility

Hypermobility happens when the ligaments in the jaw overstretch, leading to dislocation. Trauma or injury to the jaw can cause this condition.

Causes of TMJ Disorders

Jaw joint disorders can stem from multiple causes. Some of the most common include:

• Congenital joint abnormalities
• Trauma or injury to the jaw
• Infections
• Muscle overuse (e.g., bruxism or teeth grinding)
• Arthritis and other systemic diseases
• Stress, anxiety, and depression

Symptoms of Jaw Joint Dysfunction

If you’re experiencing any of these symptoms, you might have a TMJ disorder:

• Jaw pain that radiates to the neck, shoulders, or ears
• Headaches
• Ear pain (otalgia)
• Clicking or popping sounds when opening the mouth
• Difficulty chewing or speaking
• Jaw stiffness or limited movement
• Changes in your bite or tooth alignment
• Bruxism (teeth grinding or clenching)

How to Treat TMJ Dysfunction

In many cases, TMJ dysfunction resolves on its own with rest and self-care. Here’s how you can manage it:

Conservative Treatments

1. Rest and Soft Diet: Eating soft foods and avoiding activities that strain the jaw (like chewing gum) will help the joint heal faster.
2. Splints for TMJ Disorders: TMJ splints or mouthguards can help alleviate symptoms by keeping the jaw in a relaxed position, preventing clenching, and protecting teeth.
3. Physiotherapy: A physical therapist can recommend exercises to improve jaw mobility and release tension. Techniques like myofascial release and trigger point therapy can be beneficial.
4. Stress Management: Because stress is a significant contributor to jaw joint dysfunction, relaxation techniques like deep breathing, meditation, or yoga may help.

Surgical Treatments

When conservative treatments fail, surgery may be necessary:

1. Arthroscopy: A minimally invasive procedure that allows the surgeon to visualize and treat TMJ disorders by removing inflamed tissue or injecting medication.
2. Arthrocentesis: This procedure flushes the joint to remove debris and injects lubricants like hyaluronic acid to reduce friction.
3. Open TMJ Surgery: In severe cases, open surgery can correct structural problems within the joint, such as repositioning or replacing the disc.
4. TMJ Prosthesis: When joint deterioration is extreme, replacing the TMJ with a prosthetic joint can restore function and alleviate pain.

How to Reduce TMJ Inflammation at Home

To alleviate Jaw joint inflammation and pain at home, try the following:

1. Rest: Allow the jaw to rest by sticking to soft foods and avoiding extreme jaw movements.
2. Cold Compresses: Apply ice packs to the jaw for 10-minute intervals to reduce swelling.
3. Jaw Exercises: Gentle jaw exercises can improve mobility and reduce stiffness, but avoid overexertion.
4. Over-the-Counter Pain Relievers: Anti-inflammatory medications like ibuprofen can help manage pain and inflammation.

Impact of Osteoporosis on TMJ Health

Osteoporosis, a condition characterized by bone loss, can also affect the jawbone. Reduced bone density weakens the jaw, potentially leading to changes in the jaw joint structure, periodontal disease, and jaw discomfort.

If you have osteoporosis, it’s important to monitor your jaw health closely and consult your dentist regularly.

FAQs About Jaw Joint Disorders

1. How long does it take for TMJ disorders to heal?

In mild cases, jaw joint disorders may heal within a few days to weeks with proper rest and care. Severe cases may require ongoing treatment.

2. Can stress cause jaw pain?

Yes, stress is a common contributor to jaw joint pain, as it leads to teeth grinding or jaw clenching, putting strain on the joint.

3. What foods should I avoid with jaw pain?

Avoid hard, chewy, or crunchy foods, as well as gum. Stick to soft foods like yogurt, soup, and mashed vegetables.

4. When should I see a doctor for TMJ pain?

If jaw joint pain persists for more than a few days, interferes with daily activities, or worsens over time, seek medical advice from your dentist or healthcare provider.