Temporomandibular joint and muscle disorders, commonly called “TMJ,” are a group of conditions that cause pain and dysfunction in the jaw joint and the muscles that control jaw movement. For most people, pain in the area of the jaw joint or muscles does not signal a serious problem.

1) Myofascial pain involves discomfort or pain in the muscles that control jaw function.

2) Internal derangement of the joint involves a displaced disc, dislocated jaw, or injury to the condyle.

3) Arthritis refers to a group of degenerative/inflammatory joint disorders that can affect the temporomandibular joint. strongly recommend treatment option are  conservative, reversible treatments.

Conservative Treatment:

1) eating soft foods

2) applying ice packs

3) avoiding extreme jaw movements

4) learning techniques for reducing stress.

5) practicing gentle jaw stretching and relaxing exercises that may help to increase jaw movement.

Reversible treatment:

1) Pain Medication.

2) Stabilization Splints.

The conservative, reversible treatments described are useful for temporary relief of pain – they are not cures for TMJ disorders. If symptoms continue over time, come back often, or worsen, tell your doctor.