What do we mean by a jaw joint problem?
Temporomandibular joint problems (also known as temporomandibular joint disorders, TMI syndromes) are disorders affecting the jaw joints and surrounding muscles. These joints help to move the jaw, which allows chewing, speech and facial expression.
What are the symptoms?
Symptoms may include pain or stiffness in the jaw, difficulty chewing, pain around the ear, headaches, clicking or cracking sounds when the mouth is opened or closed, and sometimes “sticking” or restricted movement of the jaw.
What are the possible causes of jaw joint problems?
Stress
- Overworked everyday life
- Increased workload at work
- Persistent nervousness, anxiety
Bad habits
- Excessive chewing
- Sleep disturbances, teeth grinding or clenching during sleep (bruxism) can cause serious stress on the jaw joints, which can lead to joint problems in the long term
Tooth-musculo-articular origin
- Lack of teeth or poor tooth condition (missing teeth or teeth that wear or shift due to uneven distribution of the load on the jaw can cause jaw joint problems)
- Head or facial injuries (accidents, sports injuries or even a wrong movement can cause jaw joint problems if the jaw area is affected)
- Jaw arthritis
- Improper fit of the jaw and teeth
- As a result of orthodontic treatment, the jaw can change the position or load on the jaw
- Autoimmune disease, such as rheumatoid arthritis, which can affect the jaw joint
- Hormonal changes (in women, hormonal changes, such as pregnancy or menopause, can be associated with jaw joint problems)
When should I see a dentist?
If you have persistent or recurrent pain, stiffness in the jaw, difficulty opening your mouth or difficulty chewing, you should see a dentist. This is particularly important if these symptoms are associated with other complaints such as ear problems or headaches.
What will happen at the dentist first?
Successful therapy is based on an accurate diagnosis, i.e. clarifying what was the first, root cause of the problem.
At the first visit, the dentist will identify the source of the problem through detailed questioning and physical examination. This includes:
- oral scant,
- X-rays,
- CBCT if necessary,
- a head and neck muscle balance test,
- jaw joint examination.
What will be the next steps? What will happen afterwards?
The initial assessment will outline the directions the patient’s treatment process can take. If the problem is related to the condition of your teeth, tooth deficiency or dental treatment, the professional team in our dental practice will prepare a personalised treatment plan for you. If you need to see other specialists beyond the dental practice to treat your problem, we will help you to find excellent specialists, such as a whole-body therapist, physiotherapist or speech therapist. With any treatment alternative, the most important aim is to reduce your pain, eliminate it as far as possible, and help balance joint function, help the joint to heal and support whole body healing.
How much does the treatment cost?
The first session will include an assessment of your condition for a fee of 50,000 HUF. This fee includes both a complex examination by a dentist specialising in TMJ problems and a digital facial examination.
The cost of further treatments will depend on the intervention required, for which we will prepare a complex treatment plan for you, including the expected costs.
Dental specialist
Dr. Márta Csermely
Professional team leader, orthodontist
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the symptoms of inflammation of the jaw joint?
Inflammation of the jaw joint is usually associated with pain in the ear, jaw and head. It is often accompanied by clicking or rattling when the jaw moves and difficulty opening or closing the mouth. Treatment may include drug therapy, physiotherapy, orthodontics or mouthguards to protect the jaw. The doctor may recommend the appropriate treatment depending on the severity of the condition.
What can cause inflammation of the jaw joint?
Causes of inflammation of the jaw joint can be varied and include clenching, grinding, injuries, wear and tear of the articular cartilage, or even autoimmune diseases. Stress, hormonal changes and genetic factors may also play a role in the development of inflammation.
How can you tell the difference between temporary jaw pain and joint problems?
Temporary jaw pain can be caused, for example, by a single bite or a long night of teeth grinding. Joint problems, however, are more long-lasting and usually involve more prolonged pain, clicking or rattling and usually require medical intervention.
How long does it take to notice the effects of treatment?
Treatment of jaw joint problems is individual and results may vary over time. Some patients may experience immediate relief, while others may take longer to improve. The treating dentist or specialist will be able to tell when to expect improvement depending on the patient’s condition.
How can I help prevent this?
The best way to prevent jaw joint problems is to maintain a healthy lifestyle, manage stress, manage clenching and grinding, exercise your chewing muscles properly and reduce the strain on your jaw.
What lifestyle changes can help prevent jaw joint problems?
To prevent jaw joint problems, it is recommended to avoid excessive chewing muscle strain and to pay attention to correct chewing technique. Stress management techniques, such as relaxation exercises, can help prevent nocturnal teeth grinding. It is also important to reduce the habit of clenching and maintain a healthy lifestyle.
What role does nutrition play in the treatment of jaw joint problems?
Nutrition can also play an important role in the treatment of jaw joint problems. Avoid heavy, hard-to-chew foods that can cause further increased stress on the joints. Eating softer foods and dividing food into small bites is recommended. A proper diet can contribute to recovery and reduce joint stress in the jaw.