The temporomandibular joint or TMJ is one of the most important structures, as it is involved in jaw and mouth movement, producing the movements of opening, closing and lateral displacement of the mouth.
When the TMJ is affected, the symptoms are usually very annoying, as we use our mouth almost all day long (to feed ourselves, communicate, etc.) and it is a highly sensitive area, due to the large number of nerves in the area.
Injuries to the TMJ and the symptoms they produce are numerous and complex, which is why it is vital to have a thorough assessment carried out by an expert. The following are the main TMJ injuries and the consequences they usually cause:
- Joint disc injury: pain, crunching, difficulty opening or closing the mouth.
- Bruxism: clenching the teeth at night, which causes a significant increase in muscle tone, resulting in pain, limited movement, migraines and headaches.
- Trigger points in the jaw musculature: pain, limitation of movement, nerve entrapment, headaches.
- Trigeminal nerve neuropathy: tingling, burning, electrical sensations, stabbing pain.
- Dental problems that alter the correct positioning of the TMJ: cervical vertebral dysfunctions, altered posture and pain.