Temporo-Mandibular Joint Dysfunction

TMJ dysfunction is one of the major causes of orofacial pain, estimated to affect approximately 70% of the population.

Incidence is highest in people aged between 20 - 40 years, with women affected 4 times more than men.

The temporomandibular joint involves the connection of the jaw to the skull, with the relevant muscles involved being predominantly those of mastication, including Masseter, Temporalis and Pterygoid muscles. Sensory nerves to this joint share signals with nerves innervating the temple region, the ear and the eardrum. These nerves are highly sensitive to pain signals.

TMJ dysfunction can result from overworked muscles, as well as intra-articular and other causes. Muscular causes include jaw clenching, teeth grinding or tension, as well as from intra-articular issues such as laxity, subluxation and dislocation. Other causes of TMJ dysfunction include stress, anxiety, autoimmune disorders and fibromyalgia.

One of the most common causes of TMJ dysfunction is teeth grinding and jaw clenching, resulting in increased bulk of Masseter muscles which in turn results in TMJ inflammation from strong muscles of mastication. This can result in jaw pain, headaches, neck pain and tooth damage.

Treatment of TMJ Dysfunction includes

  1. Symptomatic management -> Pain relief. Up to 50 - 90% of people with TMJ have effective symptom relief with symptomatic treatment.

  2. Physiotherapy/Osteotherapy -> Passive stretching, along with education, warm compresses and manipulation can improve TMJ dysfunction related symptoms. This can be arranged through a chronic care plan for Medicare subsidised Physio/Osteopath treatments.

  3. Behavioural modification -> Sleep hygiene, stress and anxiety management, mindfulness and CBT techniques through psychological interventions with a mental health expert has been shown to improve TMJ dysfunction

  4. Occlusal Splints -> Fitted by a dentist. These splints do not treat TMJ dysfunction, but they do prevent tooth damage from nocturnal grinding.

  5. Botulinum Injections (Botox/Dysport)-> Botulinum Injections can be administered into Masseter muscles to prevent jaw clenching and tension. This results in decreased muscle bulk and leads to the prevention of TMJ dysfunction. These injections can also be administered to the temple/forehead region to inhibit pain pathways and decrease headaches and jaw pain. Botulinum Injections are one of the most successful medical treatments and prevention of TMJ dysfunction.

Book an appointment now with one of our Specialist General Practitioners to discuss TMJ dysfunction treatments, Physio/Osteo referral (see Samantha Jolly working her magic below!) and care plan paperwork, as well as options regarding Botulinum administration.