Medicines for TMJ disorder

What it is

TMJ disorder (temporomandibular disorder) is a common condition affecting the temporomandibular joints — the two joints that connect the lower jaw to the skull, just in front of the ears — and the muscles that move the jaw. It causes a range of symptoms, including: pain or tenderness in the jaw, around the ear, or in the face and jaw muscles; clicking, popping or grating sounds when moving the jaw; difficulty or discomfort opening the mouth wide, chewing, or moving the jaw; the jaw feeling stiff, locking, or not moving smoothly; and, sometimes, associated headaches or earache. The causes are often multiple and can include: clenching or grinding the teeth (bruxism), often related to stress; strain or overuse of the jaw muscles; problems with the bite or jaw alignment; arthritis affecting the joint; injury to the jaw; and stress and tension, which commonly contribute. It is more common in certain groups, and stress and jaw-clenching frequently play a role. Although TMJ disorder can be uncomfortable and persistent, and can significantly affect eating and daily life, it is usually not serious, and most cases improve with simple, conservative measures. Because the symptoms can overlap with other causes (such as dental problems or ear conditions), assessment helps confirm the diagnosis.

How it is treated

TMJ disorder usually responds well to a conservative approach, and most cases improve without the need for invasive treatment. The mainstays are relieving the pain and reducing strain on the jaw joint and muscles. Helpful measures include: resting the jaw and eating softer foods for a while (avoiding hard, chewy, or tough foods and large bites, and not chewing gum); applying warmth or cold to the jaw for comfort; simple pain relief and, where suitable, anti-inflammatory medicines; and jaw exercises and gentle stretches (which a dentist or physiotherapist can advise) to improve movement and reduce muscle tension. Because clenching and grinding and stress often contribute, addressing these is important — becoming aware of and reducing jaw clenching, managing stress (with relaxation techniques), and, where night-time grinding is a factor, a dentist may provide a bite splint or mouthguard to wear at night, which protects the teeth and can ease the jaw. Correcting any contributing dental or bite problems, and good posture, can help. Most people improve over weeks to months with these measures. For persistent, severe, or non-responding cases, a dentist or specialist may consider further assessment and treatments. The reassuring message is that TMJ disorder is common and usually not serious, and that most cases improve with simple measures — resting the jaw, softer foods, pain relief, jaw exercises, and addressing clenching and stress — so it is worth seeking advice rather than putting up with it.