Types of TMJ disorders

There are different types of problems that can affect the TMJ, and they are usually grouped into three main categories:

• Functional disorders: These refer to difficulties in joint movement, such as locking, deviations, or limited mouth opening. They are the most common.
• Structural disorders: These involve changes in the components of the TMJ, such as wear or displacement of the cartilaginous disc, changes in the bones, or ligaments.
• Inflammatory processes: These include conditions such as arthritis, which cause pain, swelling, and stiffness in the joint.

Most common causes of TMJ disorders

TMJ disorders can have different causes. Among the most common are:

• Habits: Nail biting, excessive chewing gum, clenching or grinding the teeth (bruxism) are behaviors that can overload the joint.
• Stress: Emotional stress can lead to tightening of the jaw muscles, contributing to pain and functional disorders.
• Trauma: Blows to the face, accidents, or sports injuries can affect the TMJ.
• Diseases: Some medical conditions, such as rheumatoid arthritis, can inflame or damage the joint.

Common symptoms

TMJ problems can show up in many ways. The most common symptoms include:

• Pain: It may be felt in the jaw, ear, neck, or face. Sometimes it appears as a mild, persistent discomfort, and other times as intense pain.
• Clicking or noises: When opening or closing the mouth, the TMJ may produce sounds such as clicks, crackling, or “popping”.
• Limited movement: Difficulty opening the mouth fully or moving the jaw from side to side.
• Muscle tension: A feeling of tightness in the muscles of the face and neck.
• Other symptoms: Headache, a feeling of a blocked ear, or ringing in the ears.

Patient journey: From symptom onset to medical consultation

The typical course for a person with TMJ problems often begins with mild symptoms, such as discomfort when chewing or clicking sounds. Many times, these signs are ignored or attributed to stress or fatigue. However, if symptoms become persistent or worsen, it is important to consult a healthcare professional.

The first step is usually a visit to a dentist, who performs an initial evaluation. In some cases, the patient may be referred to other specialists, such as primary care physicians, physical therapists, or psychologists, depending on the cause and severity of the symptoms. The goal is to find the root of the problem and define the best treatment.

Commonly requested diagnostic tests

To identify the cause and type of TMJ disorder, professionals may recommend different tests depending on the case:

• Radiographs: These allow observation of the bones of the jaw and skull and help detect structural changes.
• MRI: This is useful for visualizing soft tissues, such as the cartilaginous disc and muscles.
• CT scan: This provides detailed images of the joint and helps identify damage or displacement.
• Clinical exams: These include palpation and observation of the jaw in motion, as well as evaluation of nearby muscles.

The multidisciplinary approach: Comprehensive treatment

TMJ disorders often require the involvement of several professionals. The dentist is usually the main point of reference, but treatment may include:

• Physicians: To rule out systemic diseases or treat inflammatory processes.
• Physical therapists: They help improve function and relieve pain through exercises and physical therapies.
• Psychologists: In cases where stress or anxiety play a role, they provide tools to manage emotions.
• Other specialists: Such as ENT specialists or rheumatologists, depending on each patient’s needs.
Teamwork makes it possible to address every aspect of the problem, achieving better outcomes and improving the patient’s quality of life.