Temporomandibular Joint Disorder (TMJD)/Chewing Dysfunction

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TMJ pain is a common problem affecting many individuals - adults and children alike. TMJ refers to Temporomandibular Joint that connects the lower jawbone to the skull. The conditions that affect the TMJ (leading to discomfort and pain) are broadly classified as Temporomandibular Disorders (TMD).

TMD is viewed as a repetitive motion disorder that eventually breaks down the jaw joint and surrounding muscles, which is vital for supporting the TMJ. Any problem in these areas (bone, muscle, nerve and cartilage) can cause orofacial/craniofacial pain, leading to varied symptoms across the body.

Signs and symptoms of TMJ disorders may include:

• Pain or tenderness of your jaw
• Pain in one or both of the temporomandibular joints
• Aching pain in and around your ear
• Difficulty chewing or pain while chewing
• Aching facial pain
• Locking of the joint, making it difficult to open or close your mouth
• Jaw clenching
• Bruxism (teeth grinding)
• Jaw clicking or popping
• Headaches

Treatment of TMJD is complex and may require the collaboration of multiple medical specialists. This may include a primary care provider, dentist, orthodontist, orofacial myologist, ENT, chiropractor, oral maxillofacial surgeon, or physical therapist.

In individuals with a temporomandibular disorder (TMD), the percentage of those with orofacial myofunctional variables is estimated to be 97.92% (Ferreira, Da Silva, & de Felicio, 2009). A myofunctional therapist can evaluate and treat the function and balance of the orofacial musculature while closely collaborating with a provider specializing in TMJD.

When it comes to treatments for TMJ disorders, Myofunctional Therapy for TMJ is often used as the least invasive and most inexpensive and effective option to treat the various symptoms of TMJ/TMD. This therapy helps treat the root cause by strengthening balance of the tongue and orofacial muscles, thereby helping establish nasal breathing, correct tongue posture and correct swallowing. 

Oral myofunctional therapy can significantly reduce TMJ pain and increase mandibular mobility while reducing the severity of TMD symptoms. Overall, it helps improve the functioning of the jaw joints and relieves pain, thereby enhancing an individuals’ life.

If you are experiencing discomfort or dysfunction of the TMJ, reach out to us today to see if a myofunctional evaluation is appropriate for you!