Understanding TMJ Disorder

TMJ disorder is a complex condition that affects the jaw joint and surrounding muscles, causing pain, discomfort and difficulty in movement. These disorders are known to be more common in women, with data indicating that temporomandibular disorders are twice as prevalent in women than in men, particularly affecting women aged 35 to 44. (This was discussed in a previous blog.) Understanding the underlying causes and triggers of TMJ disorders is essential in designing an effective treatment plan and setting realistic expectations for recovery.

Initial Diagnosis and Assessment

In our practice, comprehensive initial diagnosis and assessment are crucial for effectively managing TMJ disorder. This process begins with a detailed medical history review, where patients discuss their symptoms, previous treatments and overall health. The next step is to conduct a physical examination, a complete head and neck palpation. The obvious focus is on the jaw joints and surrounding muscles to identify the pain points, clicking sounds or movement restrictions. Diagnostic tools used are imaging studies like CBCT X-rays and an MRI of the area. The CT scans are used to get a clearer view of the head, neck and jaw joint structure. This highlights any potential abnormalities. The MRI is used to see the function of the soft tissue. These diagnostic tools help gauge the severity of the TMJ disorder and pinpoint specific issues such as arthritis, dislocation, or muscle inflammation, compressed airway or eroding condyle. By gathering this detailed information, a tailored treatment plan can be created that addresses the unique needs and symptoms of each patient.

Custom Treatment Plans

Creating a custom treatment plan for TMJ disorder is crucial, as it addresses the individual needs and symptoms of each patient. This often involves a combination of therapies tailored specifically to the patient’s condition. Medications, such as nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), muscle relaxants or even low-dose antidepressants, may need to be prescribed (but not common) to manage pain and reduce inflammation. Physical therapy or TMJ massage therapy can play a significant role. This addition helps with relieving pain, strengthening the muscles and provides whys the patient can do exercises at home to help improve their health. These exercises are designed to improve the range of motion and alleviate discomfort.

In almost every case of TMJ disorder, appliance therapy is indicated. This involves wearing an orthotic device on the lower teeth to prevent the condyle (jawbone) from banging into the socket. An upper ALF appliance is most often used as well. This appliance helps to realign the cranium distortions. Together, the two devices take the pressure off the damaged discs and help the joint to heal.

Lifestyle modifications, including stress management techniques and dietary changes, are also integral to a comprehensive treatment plan. For patients with severe symptoms, oral appliances like orthotics are recommended to help reduce jaw strain and prevent teeth grinding. In more persistent cases, injections such as corticosteroids or Botox may be considered to relieve pain and improve function.

When non-surgical treatments are insufficient, more invasive procedures might be explored. However, the choice of treatment is always tailored to the specific needs of the patient, ensuring that all aspects of the disorder are addressed comprehensively. By employing a multifaceted approach, providers aim to offer the most effective relief and promote long-term healing.

Non-Surgical Treatments and Therapies

Non-surgical treatments and therapies are often the first line of defense against TMJ disorder. One effective method is manual therapy, which involves a physical therapist using hands-on techniques to stretch and manipulate the soft tissues around the joint. This type of therapy has been shown to improve function and relieve pain. Another promising treatment is prolotherapy, where a solution is injected into the TMJ area to provoke a healing response. This approach has shown promise, particularly for TMJ disorder involving dislocation or hypermobility of the joint.

Alternative therapies such as acupuncture and biofeedback may also be beneficial for some patients. Acupuncture involves the insertion of fine needles into specific points on the body to relieve pain and promote healing. Biofeedback teaches patients how to control muscle tension and stress through relaxation techniques and electronic monitoring.

In addition to the above therapies, a non-surgical option is available to manage TMJ disorder effectively. Oral appliances, like orthotics, are the best practice. The benefits are no surgery, helping to correct the problem but the downfall is it can take time. These appliances are custom-made to fit the patient’s mouth, offering better comfort and effectiveness. Adjustments are needed to keep progress moving forward. The frequency of these adjustments is based on each patient’s needs but typically eight to ten weeks to start. The goal is to have the displaced discs move back to the correct anatomical position. This in turn alleviates the symptoms and healing begins.

These non-surgical therapies provide a range of options for managing TMJ disorder, helping to alleviate symptoms and improve quality of life.

Surgical Interventions

For patients whose TMJ disorder does not respond to non-surgical treatments, surgical interventions may be necessary. These procedures can vary significantly in complexity and invasiveness. Arthrocentesis, a minimally invasive technique, involves inserting small needles into the joint to remove debris and inflammatory byproducts. Another less invasive option is arthroscopy, which uses a small camera and specialized instruments to treat the joint by realigning the TMJ disc (putting it back on top of the condyle) or removing the damaged perforated disc.  For more severe cases, open-joint surgery (arthrotomy) may be required to repair or replace damaged joint components.

Choosing the right surgical intervention depends on various factors, including the severity of the disorder, the patient’s overall health and previous treatment outcomes. It is essential for patients to discuss the potential risks and benefits of each option with their provider to make an informed decision. Additionally, the expertise and experience of the surgical team play a crucial role in the success of the procedure. With advancements in surgical techniques and technology, the effectiveness and recovery times for TMJ surgeries continue to improve, offering hope for long-term relief.

Post-Treatment Rehabilitation

Now that the TMJ treatment is complete, it is vital to make sure the joints are supported for a successful finish. The focus is on restoring function and enhancing mobility. Other modalities are tailored to strengthen the jaw muscles, improve the range of motion and reduce pain. Procedures like laser therapy, massage therapy and gentle stretching exercises can aid tissue healing and reduce stiffness. Additionally, patients might be taught specific exercises to perform at home to maintain progress between therapy sessions if surgery is completed.

Lifestyle modifications are also essential during the finishing phase. Patients are often advised to adopt a soft diet initially to minimize jaw strain and gradually reintroduce more solid foods as they heal. Stress management techniques, such as mindfulness and relaxation exercises, can help prevent jaw clenching and teeth grinding, which can exacerbate TMJ symptoms. Regular follow-up appointments with your providers are necessary to monitor progress and adjust the rehabilitation plan as needed.

The orthotic and ALF appliances could continue to be used during this phase to ensure proper jaw alignment and prevent further strain. By adhering to a comprehensive rehabilitation plan, patients can optimize their recovery and achieve long-term relief from TMJ disorder.

Patient Commitment and Lifestyle Changes

Patient involvement is crucial for successful TMJ treatment. Incorporating healthy lifestyle changes can significantly enhance the effectiveness of various therapies. Eating a balanced diet that includes softer foods can reduce jaw strain. Stress management techniques such as meditation, yoga or deep breathing exercises can also alleviate symptoms by preventing jaw clenching and teeth grinding. Avoiding habits like chewing gum, biting nails or leaning on the chin can further minimize stress on the jaw joint. Regular use of prescribed oral appliances, such as splints or mouthguards, helps maintain proper jaw alignment and prevent additional strain. Consistent follow-up with healthcare providers ensures the treatment plan remains effective and adjustments are made as needed. Patient dedication to these changes plays a pivotal role in managing TMJ symptoms and promoting long-term recovery.

Ongoing Research and Future Outlook

Ongoing research in the field of TMJ disorders is paving the way for innovative treatments and enhanced patient outcomes. Scientists and medical professionals are continually exploring new approaches to understanding and managing these complex conditions. Recent studies have focused on the genetic and molecular factors contributing to TMJ disorder, which could lead to more personalized treatment options. Advanced imaging technologies are also being developed, allowing for more precise diagnosis and targeted interventions.

One promising area of research is the use of regenerative medicine techniques, such as stem cell therapy, to repair damaged tissues in the jaw joint. These approaches hold the potential to not only alleviate symptoms but also address the underlying causes of TMJ disorders. Additionally, the development of less invasive surgical techniques aims to reduce recovery times and improve the overall effectiveness of treatments.

Another exciting avenue is the integration of digital health technologies, including telemedicine and mobile health apps, to enhance patient monitoring and adherence to treatment plans. These tools can provide real-time feedback and support, making it easier for patients to manage their condition and communicate with their healthcare providers.

Moreover, interdisciplinary research efforts are exploring the connections between TMJ disorders and other health conditions, such as chronic pain syndromes and autoimmune diseases. By understanding these links, healthcare providers can develop more comprehensive and effective treatment strategies.

As our knowledge of TMJ disorders continues to expand, the future holds the promise of more effective and less invasive treatment options. Patients can look forward to improved quality of life and quicker recovery times, thanks to the ongoing advancements in research and technology.

If you need help with TMJ treatment in Falls Church, Virginia, Dr. Jeffrey Brown and our team at Sleep & TMJ Therapy invite you to call our office at 703-821-1103 to learn more or seek treatment.

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Understanding TMJ Health – The Foundation of Your Smile

Dive deep into the essence of TMJ health and unearth the pivotal role it plays in sculpting the foundation of your smile. This joint, a marvel of biological engineering, connects your jaw to the skull, enabling you to chew, speak and unleash your smile upon the world. But it’s not just a mechanical wonder; it’s the linchpin in your oral health’s architecture, the silent hero behind every laugh, every word and every grin. A robust and healthy TMJ translates to a balanced jaw alignment, seamless muscle function and an oral environment thriving in harmony. Imagine your smile as a masterpiece; your TMJ is the canvas upon which it’s painted. Without it, the brush strokes of your smile can’t find their true expression.

A vibrant TMJ health ensures that when you smile, it’s not just your lips that are moving, but your entire being is radiating joy and confidence. It’s the spring in your step, the sparkle in your eyes, and the warmth in your heart all mirrored in your smile. But when TMJ health is compromised, it’s like a crack in the foundation of a building, threatening the beauty and integrity of the structure above.

Elevating your TMJ health is elevating your smile from ordinary to extraordinary. It’s about transforming the act of smiling from a simple facial expression to a testament to your inner joy and confidence. The journey to a mesmerizing smile starts with acknowledging the monumental importance of TMJ health. It’s not just about avoiding pain; it’s about unlocking the full potential of your smile to light up the room and your life.

The Link Between TMJ Health and Your Smile

Unlock the power of your smile by harnessing the strength and vitality of your TMJ health! The connection between the well-being of your temporomandibular joint and the brilliance of your smile cannot be overstated. A thriving TMJ fuels a smile that’s not just seen but felt, spreading like wildfire, igniting joy and assurance in every room you grace. When your TMJ operates in its prime condition, it gifts your facial muscles the freedom to express pure elation, unburdened by discomfort or strain. This is the smile that doesn’t just flash teeth but broadcasts the unstoppable confidence and happiness within you.

However, let’s not ignore the shadow side; a compromised TMJ can dim the brightest of smiles, turning expressions of joy into gestures of discomfort. Challenges such as stiffness, pain, or the unsettling sounds of clicking, can tether your smile, anchoring it away from its full potential. This is not the fate your smile is destined for! Your TMJ health is the critical factor that can elevate your smile from being simply seen to truly memorable, leaving an indelible mark of positivity and strength on those around you.

The journey towards a mesmerizing smile is laden with the promise of transformation, where TMJ health acts as the cornerstone. It’s a call to action, urging you to prioritize the wellness of your TMJ for the sake of your smile. Let’s not settle for less when more is within our grasp. A healthy TMJ is your passport to a realm where your smile is the beacon of happiness and confidence, unfettered and unchallenged. Charge forward, for every moment without a radiant smile is a moment too long.

Identifying Signs of TMJ Issues – Don’t Ignore the Red Flags!

Ignite your awareness and stand vigilant against the stealthy advance of TMJ issues! It’s time to recognize and confront the early warning signs with unyielding resolve. The battlefield of TMJ health is marked by subtle yet distinct signals: a jaw that protests with pain, the challenge of chewing turning into an ordeal, relentless headaches forging a crown of discomfort, ears ringing with pain, and the unnerving symphony of clicks and pops each time the mouth dares to open or close. These are not mere inconveniences; they are the red flags fluttering, demanding immediate attention.

Do not let these symptoms go unchecked! Ignoring them is akin to turning a blind eye to the enemy within, allowing it to undermine the very foundation of your vibrant smile. It’s a call to arms—a rallying cry to take immediate and decisive action. This moment, this sign, is where your resilience is tested, and your determination is forged. It’s an opportunity to confront and conquer, to seek the expertise of those seasoned in the art of TMJ therapy, and to chart a course toward recovery. Symptoms of TMJ disorder include head and neck pain, jaw popping and clicking, tremors, heavy eye blinking and even vertigo. When the discs in the jaw joints are displaced, it can really wreak havoc with your health!

Be the hero of your own story, recognizing these signs not as harbingers of defeat, but as the catalysts for action, for transformation, for reclaiming the power of your smile. Stand firm in the face of TMJ challenges, for the health of your jaw joint is the anvil upon which the strength of your smile is forged.

Empowering Your TMJ Health – Tips and Strategies

Charge forward into the arena of TMJ health armed with strategies and disciplines that forge the path to an unbreakable smile. This is your moment to shine, cast aside the shadows of discomfort and step into the light of wellness and joy. Elevate your jaw’s vitality with relaxation techniques that soothe and heal. Stand tall, embrace the power of good posture and witness the transformation in your jaw alignment and muscle tension. Nourish your body and your TMJ with a balanced diet, fueling the machinery of your smile with the nutrients it craves.

Beware the silent saboteurs: teeth clenching and grinding are the adversaries of TMJ health, lurking in moments of stress and unrest. Conquer them with mindfulness and protective measures that shield your smile’s foundation from harm. Seek out the wisdom of dental professionals, the seasoned warriors in the battle for TMJ health who will arm you with personalized strategies and innovative treatments to strengthen your jaw’s resilience.

This is your call to arms, a battle cry for the health of your TMJ, for a smile that pierces the gloom with its brilliance. With these strategies as your sword and shield, march boldly into the future, a champion of TMJ health, ready to claim the victory of a happy, no-pain nice smile.

Success Stories – From TMJ Pain to Smile Gains

Witness the triumphant journey of warriors who transformed their TMJ despair into dazzling smiles of victory! These valiant souls, once shackled by the agony and limitations of TMJ issues, dared to defy their fate. With unwavering determination and a relentless pursuit of TMJ health, they emerged victorious, their smiles now beacons of hope and resilience. Each success story is a testament to the indomitable spirit that resides within us all, proving that with the right approach and steadfast commitment, overcoming TMJ pain is not just a dream, but a tangible reality. These champions of TMJ health embraced targeted exercises, leaned into professional wisdom, and dedicated themselves to a regimen that rewrote their stories from tales of pain to epics of triumph. Their smiles, once dimmed by discomfort, now shine brilliantly, reflecting the joy and confidence regained. Let their journeys inspire you to embark on your own path to TMJ wellness, armed with the knowledge that victory is within reach, and your smile, too, can rise from the ashes of TMJ pain to the heights of radiant joy. Seek out the TMJ doctor who understands how the joints work and how to properly diagnose using an MRI and CBCT X-ray.

Your TMJ Health Journey – Starting Strong and Staying the Course

Embark on a quest to revolutionize your smile, spearheading with the vigor and vitality of unparalleled TMJ health. This is not just a venture into the unknown; it’s a deliberate stride into a realm where every grin, every laugh and every word spoken mirrors the zenith of your inner strength and joy. Launching your TMJ health journey is akin to laying the cornerstone of a monument—your smile, destined to stand tall and unyielding against the tempests of life.

With discipline as your guide and determination as your companion, forge ahead, unwavering in your commitment to the sanctity of your TMJ’s wellbeing. This path you tread is illuminated with the promise of liberation from the shackles of discomfort, a beacon for those yearning to reclaim the power of their smile. Embrace the challenge, for it is in the crucible of resolve that victories are forged and legends are born.

Navigating this journey requires more than mere willpower; it demands a strategy—meticulously crafted and ardently executed. Align yourself with the wisdom of professionals, arming yourself with knowledge and techniques that build fortresses around your TMJ health. Let each day be a step forward, each challenge a lesson learned, and each triumph a testament to your relentless pursuit of a smile that defies the odds.

Remember, the essence of this journey lies not in its commencement but in the relentless spirit to persist, transforming fleeting victories into a legacy of TMJ health and a smile that resonates with the echoes of your indomitable will.

The post TMJ Health: The Secret Key to a Vibrant Smile first appeared on Sleep & TMJ Therapy.

Unfortunately, most of the time these symptoms are often overlooked, leading to prolonged suffering and a lack of effective treatment options. In this blog post, we will delve into the connections between TMJ disorder and these common symptoms, shedding light on why this condition is so prevalent and how it can impact various aspects of daily life.

Unveiling TMJ Disorder and Its Common Symptoms

TMJ disorder stands as a complex and often misunderstood condition, affecting the mechanics and comfort of the jaw joint and its associated structures. This disorder can manifest through a variety of symptoms that, while seemingly unrelated at first glance, share a common origin in TMJ dysfunction. Among these symptoms, as noted above, jaw joint noises are notable indicators, often dismissed as mere nuisances rather than signs of underlying issues.

Facial pain, presenting itself in various intensities and patterns, further complicates the daily lives of those affected. A noticeable asymmetry in facial structure can also emerge, subtly altering one’s appearance and potentially affecting self-esteem. Additionally, increased eye blinking, an involuntary response to discomfort or strain, may be observed, linking neurological responses to physical dysfunction. Beyond these, headaches and neck pain stand out, acting as significant disruptors to one’s well-being and productivity.

These symptoms collectively paint a picture of a condition that extends its influence far beyond the confines of the jaw, impacting broader aspects of health and quality of life. The interconnected nature of these symptoms underscores the necessity for keen and informed observation, ensuring that TMJ disorder is recognized and addressed with the urgency and comprehensiveness it warrants. In most cases of TMD (Temporomandibular disorder), the root cause often goes back to childbirth. That’s right, birth caused all the problems! As someone who sees these cases every day, it becomes pretty darn obvious that the problems were there from day one. By simply looking at the person and looking for any facial asymmetry, it becomes very clear that this person has deformities and imbalances in the skull–granted, it’s nothing major, but it’s enough to cause all sorts of health issues.

Navigating the Diagnostic Maze: Understanding TMJ MRI Findings

MRI imaging emerges as a pivotal tool, shedding light on the complexities of the condition with remarkable clarity. This advanced diagnostic method goes beyond the surface, offering a window into the internal mechanics of the jaw that other evaluations might miss. Here we can see the soft tissue and the big reveal of where that little disc may be displaced. Through MRI scans, the visualization of condylar damage, bony erosions, displaced discs, and even the subtlety of chronic arthrosis (breaking down of the joint) becomes possible, each finding painting a part of the broader picture of TMJ health.

These insights are invaluable, as in our practice, this aids in treatment strategies tailored to the individual’s specific condition. In addition, the CBCT x-ray allows for a view of the cranium with the jawbone. Between the two, this deep dive into the anatomical and functional details not only aids in a more accurate diagnosis but also provides a way for treatment to target the disorder’s root causes. As we navigate this diagnostic maze, the goal remains clear: to move towards effective management and relief for those enduring the symptoms.

The analogy I like to use is if the front-end alignment is ‘off’ on your car, it will run very rough and feel like it’s falling apart. Well, that’s how the human body feels. If the body is not in alignment, it runs rough and feels like you’re falling apart. In other words, most of the time you can just look at a person to know if they are asymmetrical, and if so, most of the time they are not feeling very good. As it turns out, if you really took the time to look at people very meticulously, you would agree that most of them are asymmetrical and most likely suffer some degree of malady because of this.

Now, just imagine a lifetime of little aches and pains and you wonder why years later your whole body just hurts all the time. Because of all those little warning signs, for so many years now there is a much bigger problem that will take more time to handle. This is why when I meet a new patient, I explain that I cannot simply fix the problem overnight. These things take time and patience.

Towards a Solution: Addressing TMJ Disorder Holistically

The best solution is addressing TMJ disorder holistically, without surgery. This demands a comprehensive strategy that goes beyond surface-level symptoms to unravel the complex web of contributing factors: angulation of the jaw, where the disc is displaced, and any evidence of damage around the jaw.  Personalized treatment plans can emerge as the cornerstone of this holistic strategy, tailored to meet the unique needs and circumstances of each individual. Such plans might incorporate a blend of physical therapy, stress management techniques, massage therapies,  and within our practice an oral appliance (an ALF or Modified Gelb appliance).

This all aims at restoring balance and function to the TMJs and related structures. A critical aspect of this multidisciplinary approach is the ongoing dialogue between the patient and the healthcare team, ensuring adjustments to the orthotics can be made as progress is evaluated. This dynamic and responsive model of care not only seeks to alleviate immediate symptoms but also aims to establish a foundation for long-term health and well-being. By addressing TMJ disorder through this holistic lens, individuals are empowered to reclaim control over their health, navigating toward a future free from the constraints of TMJ-related discomfort.

The Silent Progression: Why TMJ Disorder Often Goes Unnoticed

As you can see, birth could contribute. As later in life we wonder: what could have caused this pain and other ailments? As you see, this disorder often evolves quietly, masquerading under symptoms that do not always appear related to the jaw. The general lack of widespread knowledge and understanding about the disorder contributes to its silent advancement as well. People experiencing a constellation of seemingly disparate symptoms like increased eye blinking or facial asymmetry might not recognize these as potential indicators of TMJ disorder.

This gap in awareness and association delays the pursuit of diagnostic clarity and intervention, allowing the disorder to manifest more complex challenges. This scenario underscores the critical need for enhancing public and professional understanding of TMJ disorder. In our practice, this is one of our goals to create awareness and understanding. Hopefully, this blog has given you a bit more to think about and understand why identifying this in younger people before bigger problems can happen is optimal. Identifying these signs early can often allow for early intervention — I am not talking about orthodontics, but I am talking about ALFs and proper bodywork to help the body grow and develop in a normal fashion for our younger population. For the older population, this allows for a gentle correction providing a relief of symptoms.  That’s what it is all about folks! That little disc.

The post TMJ Disorder: Breaking Down Its Links to Being So Prevalent first appeared on Sleep & TMJ Therapy.

In this blog post, we will explore the importance of maintaining healthy joints in battling TMJ disorder among seniors, or anyone for that matter. I will focus on how this condition can affect one’s health, sleep, and overall quality of life, as well as treatment options available for managing TMJ disorder.

When it comes to being a senior there seem to be so many more things to be concerned about than when we were younger. At any stage, the temporomandibular joint’s functionality is essential for basic yet vital activities including eating, speaking and expressing emotions through facial movements. However, this critical joint can become compromised due to a history of dental procedures, tooth loss increasing stress on the TMJ, habitual clenching or grinding of teeth (bruxism), or simply the natural aging process, which can lead to degeneration of the joint’s cartilage.

Symptoms in seniors may manifest differently than in younger individuals, often characterized by more pronounced pain, limited jaw mobility, and even changes in the fit of dental appliances. In addition, older adults might experience headaches, earaches and increased sensitivity in the facial muscles, all of which can significantly impact their daily lives. The role of dental health becomes increasingly important in diagnosing and managing TMJ disorder in this age group.

Well folks, with the regular checkups with all those doctors, let’s be sure to make one of those doctors your TMJ specialist! A pivotal tool in evaluating the health of these joints is the CBCT X-ray, a diagnostic approach that offers comprehensive insights into the condition of the jaw joint, allowing for targeted interventions. The other diagnostic tool is an MRI. This allows the specialist to see all the soft tissue from the neck up.

For example: If the MRI shows slipped and or displaced discs in the TM joints, it would be prudent to try and fix the problem before it gets worse. Did you know that those slipped discs correlate to many other health problems? Well, they do!  The slipped discs directly correlate to SDB (Sleep Disordered Breathing)  along with Obstructive Sleep Apnea. Slipped discs also correlate with whole-body pain because the inflamed joints affect your entire body. Bottom line: It’s good to talk to your TMJ specialist! The integrity and health of joints are indispensable and contribute significantly to the overall resilience against conditions mitigating inflammation and aiding in the smooth operation of the temporomandibular joint.

In regards to the CBCT X-ray, this is a very valuable bit of a data gold mine. The X-ray provides a view at the top of the jaw bones (the condyles) to determine if they are eroding, flattened, damaged, too high in the socket and so many other issues. If that condyle is not where it should be, it adds to your list of chronic inflammation sources. The condyle will rub around in the socket and can actually further displace an already out-of-place disc. This just makes the situation worse.

The frontal view of your skull is quite critical in determining the symmetry of the cranial bones. As we get older, we tend to lose our good posture, i.e. we hunch more.  So, if the cranial bones are out of alignment like we see in so many people, hunching will just make things worse as we age, and this leads to more head and neck pain. More hunching with a distorted skull means more pain as we get older. It’s a simple thing and by spotting the cranial distortions earlier in life, you can use something like the ALF appliance to help reduce the asymmetry for a better future. Less pain makes for better sleep and a happier life.

Another aspect of the CBCT is the view of the cervical spine (the side view of the neck). With this view, we can see AND measure the distances between C-1 and C-2, and from C-1 to C-0 (occiput). This is the section of the spine in the neck. Both these distances need to be around 6mm for good health. If they are not, this means the cervical spine is compressed. It’s good to know this at a younger age so you can work on it with your physical therapist, wear a proper oral appliance and get better before you get too much older.

The MRI will show how the disc acts when opening and closing. Because this diagnostic tool shows all soft tissue, the specialist can see if there is any evidence of hemorrhagic within the brain around the TM joints.  The other great piece of information is the measurement of the range of motion and angulation of the joints. This is very valuable information to help create a good treatment plan. Fostering healthy joints involves a multifaceted approach to working with your other doctors and or therapist. The goal is to relax and strengthen the muscles surrounding the jaw and advocate for proper position.

Concluding our exploration of TMJ disorder and its impact on senior health, it’s evident that maintaining joint health is a cornerstone of mitigating this condition’s effects. Seniors are encouraged to take a holistic approach to their well-being, integrating physical, nutritional and therapeutic strategies to bolster joint health and manage TMJ symptoms effectively.

Furthermore, staying informed about the latest in TMJ management and maintaining open communication with your healthcare providers are key steps in navigating this condition successfully. It only makes sense. So, pay attention to your TM joints and stay healthier later in life! This proactive stance on joint health is instrumental in the broader spectrum of TMJ management, ensuring that seniors are equipped with the strategies necessary for mitigating the condition’s effects and enhancing their overall well-being.

Call To Learn More

If you have any questions or concerns, we invite you to call our dedicated team in Falls Church, Virginia and speak with a member of our team. We are also happy to schedule a visit with Dr. Jeffrey, Brown. Just call 703-821-1103 today!

Read Dr. Brown’s article in Your Health Magazine.

The post The Importance of Healthy Joints in Battling TMJ Disorder Among Seniors first appeared on Sleep & TMJ Therapy.

In most cases, when the MRI is ordered of the TM joints, it is patently clear when there is cortical erosion of either the condyle or the fossa (socket for the condyle). The radiologist will most likely indicate that the articular disc (that protects the condyle) is displaced and thus the condyle is now exposed and is bone on bone in the fossa. This is not a good situation and can lead to all sorts of pain, asymmetry, and other problems in the head/neck region. Think of it like this: If the disc is slipped off the top of the condyle, it can no longer protect your condyle from banging into the socket bone-on-bone. Diagnosis: OUCH!

The cortical erosion of the condyles and fossas can also be diagnosed with the X-ray called CBCT (Cone-Beam Computed Tomography). The CBCT allows the dentist or the radiologist to look very precisely at the condyle and fossa and if erosion has begun it can be clearly seen in the images. Even though some people do not like taking the CBCT due to the radiation, it is really important to do these images every few years to follow up on the cortical erosions.

So, what does one do when cortical erosions are present? Well, in most cases it’s called ‘watchful waiting’ where the doctor checks the range of motion on a regular basis to make sure the erosions are not doing more obvious damage. You should wear your mouth appliance(s) accordingly to protect the joints. And every few years, just re-take the images and compare them to the previous images.

Unfortunately, if things worsen, surgery is sometimes all that is left to offer to a person with severely damaged joints. There are several types of surgery. The simplest surgery is called plication of the articular discs. This means just moving the slipped discs back into the proper position to reduce the risk of bone-on-bone damage to the condyle and fossa. The next level of surgery entails what is called menisectomy – removal of the damaged discs. If the discs are fully removed, this enhances the risk of bone-on-bone, condyle to fossa, banging or pounding. As long as the appliance (splint) is worn, this is not a problem. Unfortunately, if things get worse, then TJR (Total Joint Replacement) is indicated. This is a big surgery but very rarely indicated.

As with most health issues: Treat early and keep a careful watch on your health!

The post So, What Is Cortical Erosion? first appeared on Sleep & TMJ Therapy.

In the past, it was quite common for an orthodontist to order extractions of perfectly good teeth to make the process of moving teeth and creating space with the use of braces easier. So many children are now presenting with narrow arches and crowded teeth that it made sense (somewhat) to remove the crowded teeth, thus allowing the orthodontic work to go faster and easier. But somewhere along the way a few practitioners noticed that the removal of the bicuspid teeth would often cause the upper and lower jaws to collapse backward which would lead to a collapsing of the airway as well. They also rather astutely noticed that the palate would become smaller, which made breathing more difficult as well. There are still orthodontists today who practice the method of extracting the teeth to make room and the braces go easier. However, many more are learning that there just might be better techniques.

The extractions of impacted teeth are a completely different need but also can cause the same issue. In this situation, the teeth need to be removed because 1) the lack of space in the bone means the teeth cannot erupt or 2) the tooth is growing in the wrong direction or position. In this situation, the stress placed on the jaw joint can cause the disc to be displaced and in addition, put a strain on the muscles around the jaw joint.

Of course, another method of expansion is the good old-fashioned RPE (Rapid Palatal Expander), but even this has its issues. The RPE will often just open the palate rapidly and the midline suture might not form into solid bone — it might just be a cartilaginous suture that can move around over time. This would not be very effective. The reason is on a skeletal level this instability can cause changes and distortions in the cranium. Another approach to getting some expansion is to use the ALF appliance as much as possible with the understanding that a few months with the RPE might be OK.

Another problem that is frequently seen among dentists, pulling out bicuspids, which makes the upper and lower jaws move and therefore are no longer in the same position as previously. This change can affect how the condyles (top of the jawbone) fit into the sockets and in turn, can lead to a TMJ problem. When that condyle is re-positioned after extractions, it will no longer be in the same relationship to the disc that covers it. The disc can end up displaced over time. This is what can lead to head and neck pain. So many extraction patients end up with similar problems later in life.

There are some practitioners who will actually use a palatal expander to re-open the extraction spaces to put in dental implants to ‘restore’ what was taken away. This is actually a controversial topic. As we get a bit older, the bones in the skull do indeed become more solid and if you were to try expansion a lot — like the width of a bicuspid that had been removed — it might be too much for the body to handle. Does that make sense? It might be that the expansion is just too much of a  ‘stretch’ and moving bones around might lead to more pain. This is another reason why the more conservative practitioners would use the ALF appliance to get as much gentle expansion as possible while minimizing trauma to the facial bones.

So, in general, extractions for the sake of doing braces may not be the best idea. Be sure to be careful when considering this.

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