What are the common types of TMJ disorders?
Common Types of TMJ Disorders
Temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders, often referred to as temporomandibular disorders (TMD), encompass a variety of conditions that affect the TMJ and the muscles controlling jaw movement. Understanding the different types of TMJ disorders can aid in diagnosis and treatment. Here are the most common types:
1. Myofascial Pain
Description:
- Myofascial pain is the most common type of TMD and involves discomfort or pain in the muscles that control jaw function.
Symptoms:
- Pain and tenderness in the jaw, neck, and shoulders.
- Muscle stiffness and difficulty moving the jaw.
- Headaches and ear pain.
Causes:
- Stress, teeth grinding (bruxism), jaw clenching, and poor posture can contribute to myofascial pain.
2. Internal Derangement of the Joint
Description:
- This type involves a disruption in the normal function of the TMJ, often due to displacement or dislocation of the articular disc within the joint.
Types:
- Disc Displacement with Reduction:
- The disc slips out of place but returns to its normal position when the mouth opens and closes, often accompanied by clicking or popping sounds.
- Disc Displacement without Reduction:
- The disc remains out of place, causing restricted jaw movement, pain, and a “locked” jaw sensation.
Symptoms:
- Clicking, popping, or grating sounds in the jaw.
- Pain or discomfort in the TMJ.
- Limited range of motion or jaw locking.
Causes:
- Trauma to the jaw, excessive jaw movements, or degenerative changes in the joint.
3. Degenerative Joint Disease
Description:
- Degenerative joint diseases, such as osteoarthritis, affect the TMJ, leading to the breakdown of cartilage and changes in the bone.
Symptoms:
- Chronic pain and tenderness in the TMJ.
- Reduced jaw mobility and stiffness.
- Grinding sounds (crepitus) during jaw movement.
Causes:
- Aging, wear and tear of the joint, and previous joint injuries can contribute to degenerative joint disease.
4. Inflammatory Conditions
Description:
- Inflammatory conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis can affect the TMJ, leading to inflammation, pain, and joint damage.
Symptoms:
- Swelling, warmth, and tenderness in the TMJ.
- Pain that may be more pronounced in the morning.
- Decreased jaw function and mobility.
Causes:
- Autoimmune disorders, where the body’s immune system attacks its own tissues, can lead to inflammation in the TMJ.
5. Hypermobility Disorders
Description:
- Hypermobility disorders involve excessive movement or dislocation of the TMJ, often due to lax ligaments or connective tissue disorders.
Symptoms:
- Jaw dislocation or frequent shifting of the jaw out of place.
- Pain and discomfort in the TMJ.
- Clicking or popping sounds during jaw movement.
Causes:
- Genetic predisposition to hypermobility, connective tissue disorders such as Ehlers-Danlos syndrome.
6. Ankylosis
Description:
- Ankylosis refers to the abnormal fusion or stiffness of the TMJ, which can result from trauma, infection, or systemic diseases.
Symptoms:
- Severe restriction in jaw movement or complete inability to open the mouth.
- Pain and discomfort in the affected joint.
- Difficulty eating and speaking.
Causes:
- Trauma to the TMJ, infections, or conditions like rheumatoid arthritis that cause joint fusion.
Conclusion
TMJ disorders encompass a range of conditions affecting the temporomandibular joint and surrounding muscles. Common types include myofascial pain, internal derangement of the joint, degenerative joint disease, inflammatory conditions, hypermobility disorders, and ankylosis. Each type has distinct symptoms and causes, requiring tailored approaches to diagnosis and treatment. If you experience symptoms of TMD, it is important to consult with a healthcare professional for an accurate diagnosis and appropriate management plan.
TMJ No More TMJ No More By Christian Goodman In this eBook the author has shared he has shared his experiences while treating his 12 years old chronic problems of severe tinnitus and TMJ disorders. He has enabled thousands of people all over the world, regardless of their gender, by teaching them how to get rid of their disorders related to TMJ faster than your expectations without using any drugs, mouth guards to splints or facing the risk of any surgery.