Treatments for Temporomandibular Disorders - Essay Example

According to The University of Texas Medical Branch's article Temporomandibular Joint Disorders on WWW, the painful disorders are due to the trigeminal nerve, which is branched into three sensory synapses in the trigeminal ganglion, i.e., the ophthalmic (V1), maxillary (V2) and mandibular (V3) with each branch containing motor fibres which pass through the muscles of mastication. The pain receptors are grouped into two based on their size, myelination, and transmission rate. The larger A-delta fibres are myelinated, and the essential pain fibres transmit pain quickly. The smaller non-myelinated fibres more susceptible to chronic, dull aches and pressure are called C fibres.

"Both pain fibres have input from the trigeminal ganglia to the spinal nucleus, with subsequent synapses leading to the postcentral gyrus and the reticular activating system. This helps explain the highly emotional component of facial pain." 2. Certain oral habits, such as clenching or grinding of teeth, may cause muscle spasms which in turn cause pain. The pain further causes spasms and spasm-pain-spasm resulting in a TMJ disorder. As stated by the National Institute of Dental Research in an article Temporomandibular Disorders (TMD) on WWW, most temporomandibular diseases are simple temporary treatments that relieve the pat. 2. Certain oral habits, such as clenching or grinding of teeth, may cause muscle spasms which in turn cause pain.

The pain further causes spasms and spasm-pain-spasm resulting in a TMJ disorder. 3. Improper alignment of teeth (Malocclusion) may cause stress to the chewing muscles resulting in a spasm, thus starting the cycle as explained above. 4. Some of the oral habits and biting habits may cause problems that often result in a TMJ disorder.5. "Internal derangement of the jaw or other orthopaedic problems of the joint (such as arthritis, degeneration of the bone, injury, or developmental disorders) can play a role."6. "A blow to the jaw can result in a TMD."7. "Chewing gum or too many or too many chewy foods may promote or aggravate TMD.

" General Symptoms of Temporomandibular Joint Disorders As discussed in McKinley Health Center's article Temporomandibular Joint (TMJ) Disorders on WWW, the common symptoms of TMJ disorders are as follows: a. Pain in or around the ear. This pain often spreads to the face. b. Tenderness of the jaw muscles. c. Clicking/popping noises when one opens or closes the mouth.d. Difficulty opening one's mouth. e. Jaws that get a stuck lock or go out. f. Pain brought on by yawning, chewing, or opening the mouth widely. g. Certain types of headaches or neck aches.

Treatments of Temporomandibular DisordersAs stated by the National Institute of Dental Research in an article on Temporomandibular Disorders (TMD) on WWW, most of the temporomandibular disorders are simple temporary treatments that relieve the patient of pain and discomfort. The keywords for TMD treatment are "Conservative" and "Reversible". Conservative and Reversible therapies are simple and do not invade the tissues of the face, jaw or joint. As the name suggests, reversible treatment does not cause permanent or irreversible changes in the structure or positioning of the jaw or teeth. Some simple self-care practices, such as eating soft foods, applying heat or ice packs, and avoiding stress and strain to jaw muscles by avoiding activities such as yawning wide, singing loud and chewing gum, can ease the TMD symptoms. Special techniques and conservative, reversible treatments such as physical therapy focusing on gentle muscle stretching and relaxing exercises, anti-inflammatory drugs, usage of a splint or bite plate (Bite plate is a plastic guard that fits over the upper or lower teeth) and pain relieving medicated injections may also prove to be helpful.

While surgical replacements such as that of jaw joints with artificial implants may result in severe pain and permanent damage to the jaw over time, there is a possibility of malfunctioning these devices or failure may result in breaking apart of the jaw.TMJ implants may also cause permanent damage. Some of these devices may fail to function correctly or may die.

But it is essential to take expert medical advice and a second opinion before undergoing any type of irreversible treatment. As per various studies conducted, irreversible treatments are permanent and, as the name indicates, are irreversible. As the age-old adage goes, “Prevention is better than Cure” caution should be exercised during food intake and other activities involving the mouth to avoid TMJ disorders.