TMJ Disorders

Pain arising from the temporomandibular joint (TMJ) and related anatomical structures are known as TMJ disorders.

These may result in a clicking joint, difficulty and pain with chewing, limited or painful mouth opening, painful facial muscles and can even refer to other sites resulting in headaches or assumed ear pain.

Generally, a combination of treatments is employed, starting with conservative treatment which might include self-care, bite splints, medication, Botox into muscles, appropriate referrals (physiotherapist, psychologist) etc. Surgical options will only be employed where indicated or where conservative therapy has failed.

Surgical options include arthrocentesis (rinsing of the joints), arthroscopy (examining the joint with an endoscope), arthroplasty (opening and modification of the joint) or replacement of the entire joint with a prosthesis.