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TMJ Disorders: Treatment for Temporomandibular Joint and Muscle Issues

(Grinding/Clenching/Bruxism)

The small and inconspicuous temporomandibular joint is one of the complex joints in the body. When diseased, it can cause significant distress to the affected individuals.

We can help.

When the temporomandibular joint causes
full-body pain.

The small and inconspicuous temporomandibular joint is one of the complex joints in the body. When diseased, it can significantly affect individuals. In cases of temporomandibular joint disorders (TMJ disorders), we can assist you. In our dental practice, we focus on the holistic approach to treating individuals. Particularly when addressing temporomandibular joint disorders, we frequently collaborate with a local network of physiotherapists or osteopaths as the temporomandibular joint is part of the skeletal system.

It cracks and aches, causing headaches, neck stiffness, and ear noises that hinder daily life... When the temporomandibular joint is diseased, the symptoms affect the entire body. The systemic complaints can be attributed to dysfunctions in the masticatory system, including the temporomandibular joints and the masticatory muscles. Even minor disturbances can have significant consequences.

The temporomandibular joint connects the lower jaw to the skull.

The small and usually imperceptible temporomandibular joint is complex and highly stressed. It is involved in every small movement of the mouth, such as chewing, speaking, and laughing. While the upper jaw is part of the skull, the lower jaw is connected to the skull through the temporomandibular joint.

It is important to know that the temporomandibular joint has some peculiarities compared to other joints in the body:

The right and left temporomandibular joints do not move independently (simultaneous engagement)

The temporomandibular joint allows movements in various spatial dimensions

The condyle of the temporomandibular joint can protrude from the joint fossa during chewing movements

The structure of the temporomandibular joint is individually different and highly dependent on the tooth alignment

Temporomandibular joint disorders:
TMJ Disorders - We can help.
With an analysis using the PlaneFinder® - System

Functional disorders of the temporomandibular joints are tricky because they can cause systemic problems. Often, the affected individuals are not aware that their migraines or hip joint issues, for example, stem from a diseased temporomandibular joint. The challenge lies in diagnosing the condition.

The specialists in our dental practice in Zug are familiar with the symptoms and treatment approaches. We utilize a modern system for temporomandibular joint assessment. If a genuine TMJ disorder is present, we will investigate the problems thoroughly. Sometimes, minor adjustments in the masticatory system need to be made. Other times, more extensive measures, such as individual splint therapy, may be required. With the PlaneFinder® system, we can register the patient's natural head position, measure individual asymmetries of the dental arch in relation to it, and assess the inclination angle of the occlusal plane. Ideally, the treatment is accompanied by a physiotherapist or osteopath from our professional network.

The treatment of temporomandibular joint disorders consists of various components. There is no one-size-fits-all solution because each situation is unique, and the triggers can be different. After a clinical and functional diagnosis, we develop a treatment plan with the goal of achieving a healthy temporomandibular joint.

Jaw Joints:
Don't let stress get to you.

Jaw joint problems and stress often go hand in hand. "Gritting your teeth" is an old saying with a lot of truth to it. Emotional and physical stress can cause tension that is often compensated for in the jaw joint. Many people grind or clench their teeth when stressed. Since the jaw joint, chewing muscles, and neck are interconnected, tension can spread throughout the entire body. Therefore, just relax. Release the tension in your jaw. Massage your chewing muscles. Do tongue exercises. And above all, don't let stress get to you. For individuals with jaw joint problems, we recommend therapy approaches for stress-related habits (behavioral therapy, relaxation exercises), as well as physiotherapy treatment, among other options. We would be happy to provide more detailed advice in a personal conversation.

Schedule your appointment in our CMD consultation