Thursday, May 07, 2009 . 11:27 AM

TMJ!!!

TMJ disorders are a group of complex problems of the jaw joint. TMJ disorders are also sometimes referred to as myofacial pain dysfunction and Costen's syndrome. Because muscles and joints work together, a problem with either one can lead to stiffness, headaches, ear pain, bite problems (malocclusion), clicking sounds, or locked jaws.
1. Teeth grinding and teeth clenching (bruxism) increase the wear on the cartilage lining of the TMJ. Those who grind or clench their teeth may be unaware of this behavior unless they are told by someone observing this pattern while sleeping or by a dental professional noticing telltale signs of wear and tear on the teeth. Many patients awaken in the morning with jaw or ear pain.

2. habitual gum chewing or fingernail biting

3. dental problems and misalignment of the teeth (malocclusion). Patients may complain that it is difficult to find a comfortable bite or that the way their teeth fit together has changed. Chewing on only one side of the jaw can lead to or be a result of TMJ problems.

4. trauma to the jaws. Previous fractures in the jaw or facial bones can lead to TMJ disorders.

5. Stress frequently leads to unreleased nervous energy. It is very common for people under stress to release this nervous energy by either consciously or unconsciously grinding and clenching their teeth.

6. Occupational tasks such as holding the telephone between the head and shoulder may contribute to TMJ disorders.

hm... i'm getting worried, coz SY said it's a middle-age problem. and it's chronic. and the nurse on the phone actually had the cheek to tell me that it's common and she has TMJ quite often. i jsut thinking what could have resulted in this persistent dull pain in the jaw. #2 can't be the case coz i don't bite my fingernails or chew gum that often.... and as for #1, i'd need someone beside me when i sleep to confirm if i actually do teeth grind and clench during my sleep. ha.... #6 is funny coz ma has ALWAYS been telling not to "giap" the phone in between my ears and shoulders, which i do once in while especially when i need to multitask. I don't think I have had any jaw trauma recently, so that's out. Maybe it's #5 or #3.... stress. hm... or maybe it's a growing wisdom tooth that's causing this discomfort.

argh.

dash
courtesy of medicinenet.com