TMJ Disorder: TMD Causes, Symptoms, Diagnosis and Treatment Info

Temporomandibular joint disorder – also referred to as TMJ disorder, TMJD and TMD – is a condition that affects the functionality of the jaw. The Academy of General Dentistry (AGD) estimates that as many as ten million Americans have some form of TMJ disorder. The dental organization further estimates that more than 65 percent of Americans will experience a TMJ symptom at some point.

The temporomandibular joint is responsible for linking the temporal bone and the mandible. This joint is essential for proper jaw functionality, which incorporates everything from eating, speaking, breathing, yawning and smiling. Problems with the temporomandibular joint can range from being a chronic nuisance to a debilitating concern.

But what causes TMJ?

Temporomandibular Joint Disorder: Causes & Symptoms

TMJ Association Ltd has identified three categories of temporomandibular joint disorder:

Myofacial pain TMD
Internal Derangement TMD
Arthritic TMD

People with TMD may be surprised to learn that they suffer from more than one category simultaneously, each of which may have its own causes. Although the causes of TMD can be assumed after careful patient evaluation, the AGD states that the exact cause of TMD is often unknown; however, the organization does state that facial trauma may play a role.

If you suffer from teeth misalignment or bite irregularities (malocclusion), the effects could cause jaw displacement over time, resulting in temporomandibular irregularities. Normal wear and tear of the teeth associated with aging may also play a role in the development of TMD. If you are a bruxer (teeth grinder), you may elicit the same effects as years of wear and tear. (Special mouth guards may be used at night time to offset the effects of clenching and teeth grinding. Speak with your dentist for more information.)

In the case of arthritic TMD, the cause is of course the development of arthritis. In the same manner that the condition wears on the bones and joints of the hands, arms and legs, it can have a detrimental effect on the jawbone.

Stress may also play a role in the development of TMD in that it can potentially exacerbate any of the aforementioned issues, resulting in jaw problems. During stressful times, the symptoms of TMD may be more pronounced. TMJ pain can be constant or intermittent, the latter of which may be more difficult to diagnose.

Common TMD symptoms include:

Jaw pain
Earache
Tooth sensitivity (not associated with poor oral health)
Swelling of the face
Tooth misalignment
A stiff or sore jaw
Limited jaw functionality
Headache, neckache or backache

If you are suffering from any of these symptoms, contact your doctor or dentist to undergo a TMD evaluation.

How is TMD Diagnosed and What Does Treatment Involve?

According to the AGD, an official TMD diagnosis may not always be made in cases of TMJ disorder. Like determining its causes, it can be difficult to make a positive diagnosis. Instead, it's a matter of understanding what the condition affects. By conducting a patient history, evaluating symptoms and viewing digital imaging of the physical makeup of the teeth and jaw, a TMD diagnosis can be assumed. Related conditions that may also be responsible for the symptoms and effects then can be crossed off the list until nothing is left except TMD.

Once a diagnosis has been made by your dentist or physician, there are a number of treatment options available to correct the problem. Fortunately, most TMJ treatments are available from home and non invasive. Only in select cases will surgery be required. Oftentimes, treatment will involve dental treatment of the biting surface (occlusal equilibration) to correct bite irregularities, or simply the use of a splint or mouthguard.

Alternative treatments have also been used to treat TMD, including off-label Botox treatment. When used correctly, Botox has proven to provide a temporary relief to the pain and discomfort caused by TMD.

The cost of TMD treatment ranges depending on your location, the severity of the condition, your insurance coverage, your dentist/physician and more. Dental insurance may pay anything from 60 percent to 80 percent of your cost of treatment.