Help for a painful jaw - Brief Article

Nutrition Health Review, Summer, 2003

Jaw pain is not something to be taken lightly. If you have problems opening your mouth as wide as you used to, pain while chewing, or even an ache in your ear, you may be experiencing temporomandibular disorders.

A variety of problems can be caused by abnormalities in the jaw hinge or the jaw muscles on each side of the head. These hinge joints, known as temporomandibular joints (TMJs) connect the lower jawbone (mandible) to the temporal bone of the skull. Problems with TMJs or the muscles that surround them may cause acute or chronic pain, which may be managed without surgery.

The most common source of pain associated with TMJ disorders is a dislocated disk that separates the bones. Tender jaw muscles, dull aches in the jaw and ears, clicking sounds while chewing, difficulties opening or closing the mouth, headaches, and ear aches are all common symptoms of a slipped disk in the jaw. No one knows for sure why the disk slips out of place, but potential causes can include wear and tear, minor trauma from jaw clenching or gum chewing, or major trauma caused by a blow to the jaw.

To control the pain caused by TMJ disorders, physicians may recommend one of three nonsurgical methods:

* Over-the-counter anti-inflammatory medications may help to reduce inflammation and pain. In severe cases, a corticosteroid injection into the jaw muscles may be needed.

* Dental aids can be helpful. A plastic mouth guard may be fitted over your teeth to alleviate the pain caused by teeth grinding.

* Physical therapy, such as ultrasound therapy or jaw exercises, may be used to soothe, stretch, and strengthen the muscles.

In rare eases, surgery may be needed.

(Source: Adapted from Mayo Clinic Health Letter, June 2002.)