Temporomandibular Joint Syndrome - Essay Example

The venous supply is by the corresponding arteries. The nerve supply of the joint is derived from the auriculotemporal nerve and the masseteric nerve. The movements of the normal joint include forward movement of the mandible, side-to-side movements which occur while eating food, lowering of the jaw for opening the oral cavity, and then subsequently elevation of the joint for closing the mouth.

There are around 35 million cases of this condition in the United States. The condition is known to have a greater predisposition towards women with females being more affected than males with this condition. TMJ syndrome has been associated with many diseases which include inflammation of the joints of the body as well as hormonal problems the pathology also has a hereditary component hence genetic factors also tend to play a role. It is also associated with trauma which may result due to accidental injury or as result of a punch to the mandible.

Accidental injury may be due to not wearing helmets or putting on a seat belt while driving. The symptoms associated with the injury include severe pain in the jaw which may also present with pain in the face and the neck. The movements of the joints become limited and it becomes increasingly difficult for the person to talk as well as move the jaw. Headache and nausea are other associated symptoms. The normal alignment of the teeth can also not be done. Pain in the ear may also occur due to this pathology.

The diagnosis of this condition is based mainly on history. The medical practitioner needs to assess all the symptoms and relate them with the causes and reach an evaluation of the condition. Thus, there are no specific tests required to diagnose this syndrome. The immediate treatment is directed towards the relief of pain which is given by providing non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs which may be supplemented with medications that relax the muscles. The application of ice packs along with advice to the patient to avoid prolonged jaw movements should be given.

The patient should be kept on a liquid diet preferably. Another form of conservative treatment is a guard which is kept on the lower or upper jaw covering the teeth. This assists in relieving pain and is known as a ‘stabilizing splint’. If medical treatments fail, surgical treatments are prescribed but they are only used as a last option. The surgery is used to alter the dentition and correct the position of the joint. Artificial implants are also used in some cases. There are no particular screening programs and preventive measures for this condition. A proper history and genetic predisposition can make it easier to diagnose the condition. Trauma should be avoided by the normal possible measures to avoid this problem.