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TMJ Syndrome

The TMJ is the temporomandibular joint, but you probably know it better as the "jaw joint." With one on each side, the TMJ connects the lower jaw (mandible) to the skull. Notice how you can move your jaw both up and down and side to side? It's a complicated joint that allows for a wide range of motion.

Temporomandibular joint syndrome describes problems with the jaw. Jaw problems can include clicking, popping, limited motion, jaw pain or facial pain. TMJ disorder is the result of inflammation within the jaw, and it typically results in jaw dysfunction and/or joint pain.

TMJ syndrome treatment usually begins with anti-inflammatory painkillers and gentle jaw exercises to stretch the joint, loosen jaw muscles, and increase range of motion. Some patients find TMJ relief by getting a night guard or bite plate from their TMJ .

+Jim Du Molin is a leading Internet search expert helping individuals and families connect with the right dentist in their area. Visit his author page.

Facial Pain: Could It Be TMJ Disorder?

Facial pain and jaw pain can be the result of a range of health problems. If the patient has a sore jaw, a TMJ diagnosis is particularly likely. TMJ disorders are jaw problems caused by swelling deep within the jaw joint.

But before seeking treatment for temporomandibular disorder from a TMJ specialist, you need to know if TMJ dysfunction is the cause of your facial pain - and that involves ruling out other possibilities.

Face pain can be a result of dental problems such as an infection or an abscessed tooth, or it can result from jaw alignment problems. Dental treatment, sometimes including orthodontics, can relieve tooth pain.

Pain in the face can also be the result of sinusitis or sinus infection. When it comes to the head and face, where you feel the pain may not actually be the source. Jaw trouble can lead to headaches, or a tooth abscess may masquerade as jaw pain.

Oh, and getting hit in the face can definitely lead to facial pain!

If it's not any of these, it might well be TMJ disorder. The other diagnosis to consider is trigeminal neuralgia, an alarmingly painful nerve problem that leads to the sensation of sharp pain in the face, even with the smallest stimulus. Treatments are available, but the condition is commonly considered one of the most painful that exist.

+Jim Du Molin is a leading Internet search expert helping individuals and families connect with the right dentist in their area. Visit his author page.