November is TMJ Awareness Month! Did you know that approximately 10 million people in the U.S. suffer from TMJ disorder? We had the privilege of sitting down with Dr. Glenn Chiarello, a specialist at The Pain & Sleep Therapy Center, to dive deeper into what TMJ disorder is all about. Dr. Chiarello has dedicated his career to understanding TMJ disorders and related pain conditions, helping patients find relief and improve their quality of life.
What is TMJ disorder, and how can you tell if you might be affected by it?
Dr. Chiarello: TMJ disorder refers to a compromise in the structures of the temporomandibular joint, which connects your jaw to your skull. This compromise often involves the cartilage that cushions the joint or the ligaments attaching the cartilage to the jawbone. Structural issues in these components can lead to various symptoms.
What are the most common symptoms of TMJ disorder, and when should you consider seeing a specialist?
Dr. Chiarello: Common symptoms include noises such as popping or clicking when yawning or biting into food. Occasional noises aren’t necessarily cause for concern, but if the sounds become frequent, occur during smaller jaw movements, or are accompanied by pain, it’s time to see a specialist.
Other signs include changes in your bite or facial profile and increasing intensity or frequency of joint sounds. Pain is a significant indicator that professional evaluation is needed.
Moriah: So, an occasional click is okay, right?
Dr. Chiarello: Not quite. Ideally, there shouldn’t be any noise, but a single pop or click every once in a while is common and doesn’t necessarily mean you need to rush to the dentist. TMJ injuries are prevalent, and most people have some level of joint compromise without severe consequences.
Moriah: That’s good to know!
How does TMJ disorder impact overall health, including sleep and daily activities?
Dr. Chiarello: In more severe cases, TMJ issues can lead to muscle spasms, as the muscles try to stabilize the joint and maintain harmony with the teeth. This overworking can result in pain, difficulty chewing, or jaw fatigue.
If the bones of the TM joint shift, it can affect the airway, leading to breathing issues, particularly during sleep. As the lower jaw rotates backward, the airway narrows, potentially causing sleep-related breathing disorders.
What lifestyle changes or treatments can help manage TMJ pain and improve jaw function?
Dr. Chiarello: For lifestyle changes, avoiding gum chewing or other activities that strain the jaw is essential. Switching to a soft diet temporarily can alleviate discomfort. However, permanent lifestyle adjustments may not be practical for everyone.
Moriah: What if someone doesn’t want to make lifestyle changes?
Dr. Chiarello: For those cases, non-invasive treatments like supervised stretching exercises, hot/cold therapy, or over-the-counter anti-inflammatory medications can help. Orthotic therapy, which involves using a custom appliance to stabilize and protect the joint, is a common and effective treatment. It works much like a brace for a sprained ankle, giving the joint time to heal and regain function.
How can early diagnosis and intervention for TMJ issues prevent more serious health complications?
Dr. Chiarello: Early intervention is really the key to everything in terms of good health. Addressing symptoms like persistent noises, discomfort, or bite changes early can prevent more severe issues. Left untreated, TMJ disorders can become chronic and debilitating, affecting daily life and overall health.
If symptoms start to worsen, it’s important to seek help from a TMJ specialist or a knowledgeable dentist. Even advanced cases can often be rehabilitated, but early diagnosis significantly increases the chances of successful treatment and long-term relief.
Moriah: So, don’t wait if it gets worse?
Dr. Chiarello: Exactly. Even minor symptoms deserve attention to avoid long-term damage. The earlier you address the issue, the better your outcome will likely be.
To learn more about Dr. Chiarello and the Pain and Sleep Therapy Center, visit their website here!