ATM disruptions
Temporomandibular joint disorders
When there is a sensation of pain, discomfort or tension in the jaw; it is likely that we are facing one of the disorders of the ATM that affect the functions of this zone.
First of all, this joint deals with the fixation and movement of the jaw to meet basic needs; using a set of muscles, ligaments and nerves that when altered cause a functional imbalance. Even though they are pathologies that generally appear between 20 and 40 years of age (with a certain prevalence among women); some exceptional cases present from birth and warrant an early approach.
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Types of TMJ disorders
As soon as the temporomandibular joint disorders (ATM), it is possible to classify them as follows:
Degenerative and inflammatory disorders
They correspond to the type of disorders that cause erosion, sclerosis and in general any type of bone damage.
Myofascial pain
Even when the temporomandibular joint is apparently normal, these cases are the result of the tension in the muscles of that area of the face; which causes pain and mobility problems.
Internal asymmetry
It is the most common alteration of all and can be caused by dental alignment problems, discoloration and other injuries that also cause cracking and pain when performing any movement.
Traumatic arthritis
They are very rare cases, caused by an injury or strong impact that affect the TMJ causing a lot of pain, limitation of movement and sensitivity to contact.
What are the symptoms of TMJ disorders?
Without a doubt, the most representative symptoms of temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders are:
Difficulty biting or chewing.
Restriction of jaw movements.
Pain on both sides of the face, in the teeth, jaw or when clenching the teeth.
Rigidity in the muscles of the jaw.
Limitation of movements.
Pain when articulating the jaw.
Sound when opening and closing the mouth (similar to a hinge).
Is it possible to determine the causes of temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders?
As well as the TMJ alterations They are classified according to the affectation they produce; the causes that cause these problems are wide and very diverse.
That is why, among the most common factors are the following:
Metabolic diseases.
Congenital disorders.
Infections
Neurological conditions.
Dental malocclusion.
Loss of teeth.
Trauma
Neoplasms.
Condylar subluxation.
Muscle and / or inflammatory disorder.
Physical overload.
Stress and / or depression.
Others.
Is there a treatment for TMJ disorders?
Finally, the treatment of temporomandibular joint disorders (ATM) will depend on the classification in which they are found; being possible to apply conservative therapies or very precise surgical techniques to respond to this problem.
Likewise, the specialist during his evaluation will be able to observe the structure with great precision and with the support of some imaging tests, determine the use of splints, physical therapy or some surgical treatment that allows correcting the root of the problem.