What is the importance of the jaw joint in oral and dental health?
All formations in the face and mouth area are of vital importance. Because in this region, very important functions such as speaking, chewing, swallowing and breathing are performed. The jaw joint fulfills the duties it undertakes among these important functions.
Considering that the jaw joint is the most important part of the chewing process, which is formed by the jaw joint, our chewing muscles, teeth, salivary glands, cheek and tongue, any damage that may occur in the jaw joint will also affect all parts of the other system. It is of great importance to be examined by a dentist who is an expert in the treatment of the jaw joint in case of a problem or concern.
What are the causes of jaw joint disorders?
Jaw joint disorders and causes of pain can be various. In the past, it was widely believed that tooth bites were effective in jaw joint disorders. However, studies have shown that the problems in jaw closure are not very effective in jaw joint disorders, they have an effect of 10-15% on average, and it has been realized that eliminating the closing problems of the teeth in the treatment of jaw joint disorders is not a very useful method in terms of treatment.
Although orthodontic treatments and restorative treatments are performed in patients with jaw closure problems, it should not be forgotten that these treatments are not for jaw joint treatment, but to eliminate the problems experienced in jaw closure. For this reason, patients who will receive jaw joint treatment should stay away from irreversible treatments and pay attention to the execution of their treatment by a physician who has expertise in jaw joint treatment.
One of the leading causes of jaw joint disorders is traumas that develop as a result of different situations. These traumas can be traumas that come directly to the face and jaw area. These traumas may damage the hard and soft tissues in that area, and fractures may occur in the jaw.
Apart from hard traumas, micro-trauma types can also cause jaw joint disorders. At the beginning of these are teeth clenching and grinding. Apart from oral and dental problems, the stress factor both affects the muscles and can often cause muscle spasms. Due to triggering bruxism, stress can cause jaw joint disorders.
What are the symptoms of jaw joint disorder?
Symptoms that indicate jaw joint discomfort may manifest themselves. Among these symptoms, the most frequently complained about is the noise coming from the jaw joint. It can be in the form of clicking, squeaking or rubbing.
Another and frequently encountered problem is the difficulty in opening the mouth. Patients in this situation may not be able to open their mouths fully. Pain is one of the most important symptoms.
Due to pain in the jaw joint area, patients may not be able to open their mouths. In addition, jaw joint disorders can cause discomfort in the ear region of patients. The reason for this is that the jaw joint is a joint located just in front of the ear. Sounds such as ear pain, ringing, buzzing may be a problem in the ear as well as an indication of jaw joint discomfort.
At what age and gender is jaw joint pain more common?
Jaw joint disorders can occur at any age. However, studies have shown that it is mostly seen between the ages of 20 and 45, and it is stated that it is seen a little more in women.
Are there measures that can be taken to prevent jaw joint pain?
It is possible to prevent the negative effects of problems such as bruxism, which we call micro-trauma, on oral and dental health, with early diagnosis and treatment. Problems that may occur can be prevented by the treatment applied by a dentist who has expertise in jaw joint disorders and the use of oral appliances after the examination.
What are the treatment methods for jaw joint disorders?
Most people with jaw joint disease think that it is not related to oral and dental health. Examination and treatment of jaw joint disorders are performed by dentists.
According to the examination and diagnosis made by the specialist dentist, pharmacological (drug) treatments can be applied in the treatment of jaw joint disorders, as well as auxiliary treatment tools that are placed in the mouth to prevent the harms of clenching at night, which we call intraoral appliances. Physical therapy methods are also among the methods used to treat these disorders.
If there are cysts, tumors and growth anomalies that need to be cleaned in the area, and if the patient has a pain condition that affects the social life of the patient, surgical treatments can be considered.
In cases such as slipped disc and dislocation of the disc due to various reasons, surgical treatment is required, with an 80-85% success rate with intraoral appliance treatment.