Jaw Joint Discomfort

The temporomandibular joint (TMJ, Mandible Joint) is a dynamic living tissue that connects the lower jaw with the skull. Jaw joint disorder is a pain and dysfunction syndrome involving the masticatory muscles. Jaw joint disorders have affected a widespread segment today. It is caused by the deterioration of the harmony between the articular surface and the disc.

HOW IS THE JAW JOINT INSPECTED?
· Inspection of teeth and closing system
· Examination of chewing muscles
· Examination of the jaw joint
· Radiological examination

HOW IS JAW JOINT DISEASES DIAGNOSED?
Some ancillary tests can be used together with clinical examination to diagnose jaw joint disorders. Computed tomography and magnetic resonance imaging are frequently used imaging modalities. Rarely, scintigraphy or PET examinations may be required. The use of splints is also a diagnostic tool.

HOW ARE JAW JOINT DISEASES TREATED?
· Symptomatic treatment
· Treatment of the causes that cause the disease
· Elimination of predisposing factors
· Treatment of pathological factors
Oral and Maxillofacial SURGERY specialists, who specialize in the diagnosis and treatment of the jaw joint, first diagnose the disease and then inform the patients about the necessary treatments. After the patients accept the treatments, necessary treatments are performed.

Jaw joint treatment requires a multidisciplinary approach, primarily patient compliance. Along with the treatment to be applied by the jaw joint specialist, it may also require consultation of an Orthodontist, Physical Therapist, Psychiatrist, and Neurologist.