• The temporomandibular joint is the joint that connects your jaw to your skull. When this joint is injured or damaged, it can lead to a localized pain disorder called temporomandibular joint (TMJ) syndrome.
• Causes of temporomandibular joint (TMJ) syndrome include injury to the teeth or jaw, misalignment of the teeth or jaw, teeth grinding, poor posture, stress, arthritis, and gum chewing.
• Signs and symptoms of temporomandibular joint (TMJ) syndrome include
o pain in the jaw joint,
o jaw clicking and popping,
o ear pain/earache,
o popping sounds in ears,
o headaches,
o stiff or sore jaw muscles,
o pain in the temple area, or
o locking of the jaw joint.
• Temporomandibular joint (TMJ) syndrome often responds to home remedies, including ice packs to the joint, over-the-counter nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), avoiding chewing gum, massage or gentle stretches of the jaw and neck, and stress reduction.
• Dental treatment for temporomandibular joint (TMJ) syndrome includes dental splints, physical therapy, prescription medications, and in severe cases, surgery.
• The prognosis for TMJ syndrome is generally good as the disorder can usually be managed.
