Temporomandibular joint disorders (TMJ) are painful and movement-limiting conditions that occur when the joint connecting the lower jaw to the skull and surrounding structures such as muscles, ligaments and discs lose their function. This disorder directly affects not only mouth opening and closing movements, but also functions that affect daily life such as speaking, chewing and even swallowing.
This problem, which is initially noticed as a mild pain or jaw fatigue, can progress over time and cause jaw locking, facial asymmetry and constant head, neck and ear pain.
At İşman Dental, jaw joint disorders are addressed not with an approach that only temporarily eliminates complaints, but with the aim of providing a permanent solution by determining the source of the problem. A personalized treatment plan is created using a detailed examination, special imaging techniques, and jaw function evaluations.
What are the causes of jaw joint disorders?
Many factors may be effective in the formation of jaw joint disorders. This disorder sometimes does not develop due to a single cause; it occurs when more than one cause comes together. One of the most common causes is the habit of clenching or grinding teeth. The joint structure, which is constantly exposed to muscle activity, becomes strained and painful over time.
Apart from this, trauma to the jaw, orthodontic disorders, missing teeth, poorly made dentures, congenital jaw closing problems or muscle tension caused by stress also pave the way for jaw joint problems.
At İşman Dental, patients are evaluated not only with intraoral evaluation but also with a multi-faceted approach that takes into consideration jaw movements, the condition of the facial muscles, the relationship between the neck and the spine, and even the psychological state of the patient.
How to Understand the Symptoms?
The symptoms of jaw joint disorders are common enough to attract the patient’s attention in their daily lives, but they can often be confused with other health problems. The most common symptom is pain or a clicking sound felt during jaw movements. This sound is caused by the jaw joint disc slipping out of place. In some patients, the jaw does not open fully or cannot close after opening; this condition is called “locked jaw”.
In addition, pressure felt around the ear, buzzing, ringing, waking up with a headache in the morning, a feeling of gaping teeth, neck and shoulder pain may also be related to the jaw joint. At İşman Dental, these symptoms are carefully analyzed and a clear diagnosis is made by distinguishing them from other disorders that may cause similar findings.
How Does the Treatment Process Progress?
The aim of jaw joint treatment is to reduce the pressure on the joint, relax the muscles and return jaw movements to normal. The treatment plan is shaped according to the severity and cause of the disease. In mild cases, jaw function can be restored to normal with the use of a night plate, muscle relaxants, and lifestyle changes.
For moderate and advanced level conditions, advanced treatment methods such as intra-articular injections, botox applications or physiotherapy support can be used.
Thanks to the night plates specially prepared for each patient at İşman Dental, the imbalance in the closing of the teeth is eliminated, the muscles are rested and the joint load is reduced. If necessary, the treatment process is supported by jaw joint supportive exercises, hot and cold applications and nutritional adjustments. In this way, jaw movements become more comfortable and the pain and clicking sensation disappear over time.
How Long Does Treatment Last?
The process of jaw joint treatment varies depending on the severity of symptoms and how well the patient complies with the recommendations. While some patients experience significant relief within a few weeks, some cases may require longer follow-up. Especially in cases of chronic muscle pain or structural disorders such as disc displacement, the treatment process is planned longer term.
At İşman Dental, the process is regularly monitored with checks made according to the patient’s needs. If necessary, the treatment plan is reshaped to aim for maximum benefit. The goal is to provide long-term recovery, not temporary relief.
What Happens If It Is Not Treated?
Untreated jaw joint disorders can progress over time and lead to more serious health problems. Permanent jaw movement limitations, bone erosions, constant pain, jaw closure disorders and even facial asymmetrical appearance may occur. At the same time, deterioration in sleep quality, nutritional problems and a general decrease in quality of life are other problems that may be encountered in the long term.
At İşman Dental, these risks are shared with the patient in detail and it is particularly emphasized that the earlier the jaw joint disorders are treated, the more successful the results are. Early intervention shortens the treatment time and makes more advanced surgical procedures unnecessary.
How Much Does Treatment Cost?
The cost of jaw joint treatment may vary depending on the method to be applied, the appliances to be used, the number of sessions and additional applications accompanying the treatment. It is natural for there to be a price difference between a case that can be solved with the use of a simple night plate and cases that require injections, botox or physiotherapy.
At İşman Dental, a comprehensive treatment plan is created for each patient after a personalized examination. Along with the treatment process, estimated cost information is also shared transparently. In this way, the patient knows every stage of the process in advance and can make his/her plan with confidence.