TMJ
Description
Temperomandibular Joint Disorders affect the articulation of the jaw, near the ear. This juxtaposition can enable the person with a TMJ problem to hear the joint pop (usually unilaterally).
Causes
Besides trauma, such as a blow to the jaw during sports or spousal abuse, TMJ may develop because of an uneven bite ("malocclusion"). The orthodontist can help align teeth, or orthognathic surgeons can also change the length of the jawbone (usually shortening the jaw to overcome an underbite).
Bruxism may also be responsible, including that brought on by emotional distress.
Surgery can also replace the TMJ joint, itself, which may become worn, or damaged. There is a meniscus within the joint, similar to that in the knee joint, which may also become torn and damaged so that it cannot function properly.
Signs & Symptoms
The signature feature is actually not the popping noises but the size of the bite available upon maximally opening the jaw. The dentist may use a special measuring device with a scale in millimeters, although a "rule of thumb" (almost literally) may also be applied: the ability to place 2 fingers inside the mouth.
There may be difficulty in biting and chewing food, which can produce a change in diet and difficulty in maintaining proper nutrition.
The chewing muscles (masseter), as well as the muscles surrounding the temples (temporal muscles), will be in spasm i.e. tender and painful. They may also, via trigger points, promote headaches.
Some relief may be found with analgesics, or even skillful massage. The problem will recur, however, unless the underlying cause is also resolved i.e. the TMJ.
Nutritional Supplements
Structure & Function: Joint Support
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General Supplements
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| Calcium | 2,000 mg |
| CoQ10 | 60 mg |
| L-Tyrosine | 500 mg |
| Magnesium | 1,500 mg |
| Manganese* | |
| Vitamin B Complex | 100 mg tid |
| Vitamin C | 4,000 - 8,000 mg |
*Please refer to the respective topic for specific nutrient amounts.
Note: All amounts are in addition to those supplements having a Recommended Dietary Allowance (RDA). Due to individual needs, one must always be aware of a possible undetermined effect when taking nutritional supplements. If any disturbances from the use of a particular supplement should occur, stop its use immediately and seek the care of a qualified health care professional.
Dietary Considerations
Vegetable drinks are recommended. Leafy vegetables are also beneficial, if there is adequate chewing capability.
Crunchy vegetables also maintain jaw health, if the bite is correctly aligned.
Calcium-rich foods include: green leafy vegetables and shellfish.
Herbal Approaches
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Herbs
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Hops
Kava Kava
Lobelia
Passionflower (Passiflora)
Red Raspberry plant
Skullcap
Thyme
Valerian Root
Note: The misdirected use of an herb can produce severely adverse effects, especially in combination with prescription drugs. This Herbal information is for educational purposes and is not intended as a replacement for medical advice.
Discussion:
The primary form of therapy is stress-relief. This also lends itself to aromatherapy.
Homeopathic Remedy
| Description | Remedy |
| Bone pain | Symphytum officinale tinct. |
| Neuralgia (Nerve pain) | Rhus Toxicodendron |
Treatment Schedule
Over-the-counter homeopathic remedies may be single strength (of fairly weak potency e.g. 6X ) or a blend of several weaker strengths (6X, 8X, 10X).
This may comprise a single remedy, or several remedies.
Doses are administered on a 3 times daily (tid), between meals,schedule and continued for 3 days.
Liquid preparations usually use 8-10 drops per dose.
Solid preparations are usually 2 or 3 pellets per dose.
Children use 1/2 dose i.e. 1 pellet.
If there is aggravation of the symptoms, stop taking the remedy and consult a homeopath.
References
Murphy, R. : Homeopathic Medical Repertory. Hahneman Academy, Pagosa Springs, Colorado. 1993.
Murphy, R. : Lotus Materia Medica. Hahneman Academy, Pagosa Springs, Colorado. 1995.
Pert, J.C.: Homeopathy for the Family. The Homoeopathic Development Foundation, London. 1985 edition.
Aromatherapy - Essential Oils
| Chamomile Essence, | Coriander Essence, |
| Valerian Essence. |
Related Health Conditions
Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
Sprain
Strained Muscle
References
Aghabeigi B et al.: The role of oxygen free radicals in idiopathic facial pain. Br J Oral Maxillofac Surg, 35(3):161-5 1997 Jun.
Alstergren, P et al: Determination of temporomandibular joint fluid concentrations using vitamin B12 as an internal standard. Eur J Oral Sci 1995 Aug;103(4):214-8.
Auvenshine RC: Psychoneuroimmunology and its relationship to the differential diagnosis of temporomandibular disorders. Dent Clin North Am, 1997 Apr, 41:2, 279-96.
Celiker, R et al: Temporomandibular joint (TMJ) involvement in rheumatoid arthritis (RA). Relationship with disease activity. Scand J Rheumatol 1995;24(1):22-5
Cooper, BC: The role of bioelectronic instruments in the management of TMD. N Y State Dent J 1995 Nov;61(9):48-53.
Garcia R Jr & Arrington JA: The relationship between cervical whiplash and temporomandibular joint injuries: an MRI study. Cranio, 14(3):233-9 1996 Jul.
Hathaway KM: Evaluation and management of maladaptive behaviors and psychological issues in temporomandibular disorder patients. Dent Clin North Am, 1997 Apr, 41:2, 341-54.
Hu YS et al.: The temporomandibular joint in juvenile rheumatoid arthritis: Part II. Relationship between computed tomographic and clinical findings. Pediatr Dent, 18(4):312-9 1996 Jul-Aug.
Kamada, A et al: Changes in synovial fluid N-acetyl-beta-glucosaminidase activity in the human temporomandibular joint with dysfunction. J Osaka Dent Univ 1993 Oct;27(2):107-11.
Kovero O & Iononen M: Signs and symptoms of temporomandibular disorders in adolescent violin players. Acta Odontol Scand, 54(4):271-4 1996 Aug.
Kuwahara T et al., Characteristic chewing parameters for specific types of temporomandibular joint internal derangements. Cranio, 14(1):12-22 1996 Jan.
Moss, RA et al: Oral habits and TMJ dysfunction in facial pain and non-pain subjects. J Oral Rehabil 1995 Jan;22(1):79-81.
Ren, YF & Isberg, A: Tinnitus in patients with temporomandibular joint internal derangement. Cranio 1995 Apr;13(2):75-80.
Saghafi, D & Curl, DD: Chiropractic manipulation of anteriorly displaced temporomandibular disc with adhesion. J M P T. 1995 Feb;18(2):98-104.
Tanne K et al., Stress distribution in the temporomandibular joint produced by orthopedic chincup forces applied in varying directions: a three-dimensional analytic approach with the finite element method. Am J Orthod Dentofacial Orthop, 110(5):502-7 1996 Nov.
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