Temporomandibular Joint Disorders and
Treatment | Scottsdale

The temporomandibular joint (TMJ) is combination hinge and sliding joint located on the left and right sides of the jaw. It connects the lower jawbone (mandible) to the temporal bone of the skull.

The TMJ is what allows your jaw to move up, down, forward, backward, and side to side. Without this joint, we would not be able to talk, chew, or yawn!

TMDs cause pain in the jaw and the associated muscles of jaw movement. This can result in a decreased amount of jaw opening or difficulty opening the mouth.

The most common signs and symptoms of TMD are:

• Pain and tenderness of the jaw
• Pain in or in front of the ear
• Pain while chewing, difficulty chewing
• Jaw locking (inability to open or close the mouth)
• Difficulty opening the mouth

Jaw clicking and/or popping is not necessarily a sign of TMD. On its own it is a common finding in the general population.

There is no need for TMD treatment if there are no other associated symptoms.

The TMJ is a complex joint, and as such the cause of TMDs can be complicated and multifactorial.

Common causes of TMD are:

• Myofascial pain syndrome (pain of the muscles involved in chewing)
• Trauma
• Bruxism (clenching and grinding)
• Internal derangements (disc displacement)
• Degenerative joint disease (osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis)

There are several potential treatments for TMD. These include:

• Medication
  • Pain relievers/anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs)
  • Muscle relaxants
  • Tricyclic antidepressants
• Nondrug therapy
  • Counseling and behavior modification
  • Physiotherapy
  • Occlusal appliance (splint)
  • Occlusal rehabilitation
• Surgery
  • Arthrocentesis
  • Arthroscopy
  • Condylotomy
  • Joint replacement

An occlusal splint is a noninvasive, reversible therapy. If it is effective, it is recommended to continue using the splint. There is no contraindication to continue using an occlusal splint indefinitely.

If you do not wish to use a removable appliance anymore, then permanent occlusal adjustments can be made. This is commonly achieved with crowns on the back biting teeth. However, it should be noted that any occlusal adjustments that are made in this way are nonreversible.

Making your occlusal splint is straightforward and easy. It is no different than the process of making a mouth guard or bleaching trays.

Impression molds will be taken of the upper and lower teeth. After that a recording of your bite will also be taken. These materials will be sent to a laboratory to make your occlusal splint.