ANSWERS: 1
  • Temporomandibular Joint Dysfunction (TMJD) is caused by arthritis of the TMJ. The TMJ is the joint between the skull and the mandible, or jaw. It is the pivot point that allows your mouth to open, i.e. it is the fulcrum for openning and closing the mouth. TMJD often masquerades as ear or temple pain since the TMJ forms the front wall of the ear canal and the temporalis muscle attaches directly to the TMJ. It is often caused by grinding of the teeth (esp. during sleep). Conservative treatment includes going on a soft diet, avoiding chewing gum, seeing an oral surgeon or orthodontist for fitting of a bite-block and therapeutic doses of ibuprofen for anti-inflammatory and analgesic effect. More invasive (and rarely necessary) treatment includes "cleaning out" of the joint by an oral surgeon, or even replacement of the joint.

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