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20 Apr 2020

Disjointed jaw. Possible causes and treatment

Pain in the jaw can have different origins and one of them is, precisely, a problem in the temporomandibular joint (TMJ) and that is what gives rise to the disjointed jaw.

Causes of having a disjointed jaw

In this area of the face, which is between the jaw and the temporal bone of the skull, there are a series of ligaments, tendons and muscles that, on the one hand, are responsible for supporting the joint and, on the other, those that allow the jaw to perform its movements naturally.

However, in some cases, the joint is especially loose and/or the ligaments that hold it are very weak. It is then that there is an alteration in the normal flow of movement that causes a mandibular dislocation.

Disjointed jaw main symptoms

The main consequence of this dislocation is precisely that the jaw is disjointed and with it will appear an inability to open and close the mouth normally and, even, a certain limitation in dental occlusion. This, in most cases, is accompanied by intense pain in the jaw area – which can rise around the ear – and a snap every time the jaw locks and unlocks.

To these symptoms must be added others such as headache and pressure under the eyes, discomfort when yawning or chewing and, in cases of severe jaw dislocations, a sudden change in the socket of the upper and lower teeth.

disjointed jaw

What treatment should be followed in the face of a disjointed jaw?

There are different practices and procedures that have a positive effect on the alteration of temporomandibular joint and, above all, are especially useful when it comes to minimizing the symptoms that we mentioned previously.

Apply heat

This remedy is simple and helps us relieve pain and reduce muscle spasm of the jaw.

Resort to relaxation techniques

In some cases, TMJ alteration may result from excessive buildup of tension in the jaw muscles. Eliminating stress through meditation, sport or other similar practices is essential to relax the area.

Alternative treatments

In those cases where dislocation of the jaw is very frequent or recurrent, your specialist may recommend resorting to a treatment based on botulinum toxin infiltrations.

Surgery

Those patients who suffer a permanent blockage and have been diagnosed by their specialist with a chronic dislocation should undergo surgery to recover the normal occlusion of the jaw.

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    Dra. María Nart Molina

    Dr. María Nart Molina is a specialist in Orthodontics and Dentofacial Orthopedics. She has a degree in dentistry from the UIC (2009) specializing in orthodontics and dentofacial orthopedics. She has also trained at the University of Washington with a Master of Science in Dentistry.

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