The temporomandibular joint is one of the most complex joints of the body.

The temporomandibular joint connects the jawbone to the skull, basically it is the bone joint of the jaw. This joint is unique because is a bilateral joint that functions as a single unit (being connected to the mandible, the temporomandibular joints on the right and on the left must work together and, therefore, are not independent from each other)

The cause of temporomandibular joint dysfunction is difficult to determine.

The pain could occur in the following situations:

➢ jaw lesions (fracture of the jaw, a fist blow in the jawbone)

➢ osteoarthritis (like any another joint in the body)

➢ clenching of the teeth during sleep

➢ dental problems

➢ stress (can lead to repeated clenching of the jaw)

In most cases, discomfort and pain can be alleviated with self-care treatments; only severe disorders may require surgery.

The main symptoms in the case of temporomandibular joint dysfunction are:

➢ Jaw pain

➢ Pain during chewing

➢ Pain during yawning or at the wide opening of the mouth

➢ Pain that radiates to the neck

➢ Headache or migraines

➢ Painful clicking (noise) of the jaw

The temporomandibular joint is the bone joint of the jaw and can be felt placing the fingers just below the ear and opening and closing the mouth.

The temporomandibular joint allows for a series of complex movements that are necessary to eat, yawn, talk and swallow.

The unique characteristic of the temporomandibular joint is given by its joint disc, composed of dense fibrocartilaginous tissue that provides cushioning and protection to the joint. When the joint becomes dysfunctional, it can cause lifestyle limitations and severe pain.

➢ Dentists with specialized expertise in jaw-related pain or dysfunction of the osteopathic temporomandibular joint

➢ Osteopaths or chiropractors experienced in the treatment of jaw pain. They can use alignment techniques, massage, traction or mobilization to improve joint function.

Pain relievers can help to relieve the pain commonly associated with this dysfunction. Myorelaxant drugs are also used in the early days to help relax the muscles around the joint.

Sedatives can help when clenching the teeth at night, worsens the pain. Local corticosteroid injections have proven useful in situations where the pain is very intense.

In rare cases, injections containing BOTOX can be administered into the muscles that are used to chew (Botox decreases spasticity/excessive straining of muscles).

In the case of jaw pain, various devices such as mouth guards will be inserted over the teeth and worn during sleep.

During the day, avoid movements or gestures that can accentuate the pain, such as: nail biting, supporting on the chin, clenching the teeth.

Exercise programs for strengthening and stretching the jaw muscles, combined with ice and heat applied alternately, as well as with physiotherapy (ultrasound) and massage, have beneficial effects on the temporomandibular joint dysfunction.

➢ Soft foods or cutting the food into small pieces is recommended.

➢ Avoid sticky foods and do NOT chew gum.

➢ Ice applied topically to the affected area for 5-10 minutes 1-3 times a day helps relieve pain and inflammation

➢ Deep breathing and relaxation can help release tension from the tense muscles and jaw