Jaw Joint (TMJ) Treatment İstanbul

The temporomandibular joint (TMJ) is a living and dynamic joint that connects the lower jaw to the skull and provides basic functions such as chewing, speaking and swallowing. Jaw joint disorders are a group of conditions that affect this joint and the surrounding muscles and that present with pain, sounds, restricted movement and loss of function.

Jaw joint disorder generally occurs as a result of a disruption of the harmony between the joint surface and the joint disc. Today, due to stress, clenching, incorrect occlusion and modern lifestyle habits, TMJ problems have become quite common in society.

What Are the Causes of Jaw Joint Disorders?

- Direct trauma to the jaw or joint region (accident, blow)

- The habit of chewing on one side

- Missing teeth

- Clenching and grinding of the teeth (bruxism)

- Intense stress, anxiety and depression

- Non-physiological dental occlusion

- Orthodontic disorders

- Developmental anomalies of the joint (hypoplasia, etc.)

- Degenerative joint diseases (osteoarthritis, arthrosis)

- Autoimmune diseases (rheumatoid arthritis, lupus)

- Unknown (idiopathic) factors

How Are Jaw Joint Diseases Diagnosed?

The diagnosis of jaw joint disorders begins with a detailed clinical examination. When necessary, the following supporting methods are used:

- Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI)

- Computed Tomography (CT)

- Radiographic examinations

- Rarely scintigraphy or PET

- The use of a splint (night guard) as a diagnostic and evaluation tool

Does Jaw Joint Treatment Reduce Pain?

With appropriate jaw joint treatment, the excessive loads on the joint are reduced, the musculoskeletal system is balanced and correct chewing habits are established. In this way, pain is largely reduced, functions improve and daily quality of life increases.

Does Jaw Joint Treatment Provide a Complete Cure?

Jaw joint treatment may not always provide a complete cure. Permanent deformations that have occurred in the joint disc or the ligaments may not fully return to their former state. However, with the correct treatment, progression is stopped, pain is brought under control and significant relief is achieved. In problems originating from orthodontics or occlusion, marked improvement is seen in the joint once the underlying cause has been eliminated.