Ege Aesthetic Dental Clinic Izmir Turkey

Jaw Joint Treatments

Jaw joint problems can directly affect the shape of the face and the structure of the mouth. These issues make it difficult for patients to sleep, chew, and speak, leading to discomfort in daily life. The jaw joints, which are connected to the neck and spine, can cause significant issues such as jaw misalignment if left untreated. Without proper treatment, jaw joint problems can lead to irreversible conditions that make everyday activities more challenging. To address jaw joint problems, our specialized jaw surgeons offer personalized treatment plans tailored to the specific needs of each patient.

How Do Jaw Joint Problems Develop?

Jaw joint disorders develop due to various factors, as the jaw is closely connected to the neck, spine, and teeth. The jaw plays a key role in activities such as chewing, speaking, swallowing, and breathing. A healthy individual uses their jaw joint around 2,000 times a day. The lower jaw joint moves in coordination with the neck and spine, allowing for full movement in all directions (up, down, left, right). When this movement system is strained or disrupted, jaw joint problems can arise, impacting daily activities such as eating, speaking, and swallowing.

How Are Jaw Joint Problems Diagnosed?

Our specialists conduct a detailed examination process to diagnose jaw joint problems. Before a definitive diagnosis, patients undergo X-rays to thoroughly assess the jaw joint. Based on the findings from our physical therapists, dentists, plastic surgeons, and, when necessary, psychiatrists, a jaw joint disorder diagnosis is made. Once the root causes of the jaw joint problems are identified, appropriate treatment methods are developed.

What Are the Causes of Jaw Joint Pain?

Common causes of jaw pain include:

  • Constant teeth grinding and clenching (especially during sleep)
  • Postural issues caused by holding the head forward
  • Dental problems and improper jaw alignment
  • Habitual one-sided chewing
  • Muscle tension due to psychological stress
  • Habits like nail-biting, lip-biting, or cheek-biting
  • Exposure to cold weather or wind-related trauma
  • Loose connective tissue in the jawbone
  • Tumors or other growths in the jaw joints
  • Trauma from car accidents or direct blows

What Problems Do Jaw Joint Disorders Cause?

Jaw joint disorders can lead to the following issues:

  • Pain and tenderness in the jaw muscles
  • Limited movement in the jaw, causing difficulty opening and closing the mouth
  • Clicking or popping sounds in the jaw joints during movement
  • Shifts in the alignment of the mouth
  • Difficulty chewing and pain during chewing
  • Tinnitus (ringing in the ears) and dizziness, along with recurring headaches and fatigue
  • Pain in the neck, head, ears, nose, and eyes

How Does Jaw Misalignment Occur?

Jaw misalignment can develop from various causes, including:

  • Blows to the face from sports like boxing
  • Trauma from car accidents or other incidents
  • Overloading of the jaw joint
  • Sudden jaw movements
  • Biting or chewing on hard objects
  • Trying to open the mouth too wide
  • Biting food using the front teeth and overstretching the mouth
  • Improperly positioned teeth due to dental issues
  • High dental fillings

How Can Jaw Misalignment Be Detected? What Are the Symptoms?

Signs and symptoms of jaw misalignment include:

  • Pain in the jaw joints after eating
  • Swelling in the lower front part of the ear
  • Popping or clicking sounds when opening or closing the mouth
  • Difficulty aligning the teeth when closing the mouth
  • Morning jaw pain and difficulty opening the mouth upon waking
  • Difficulty and pain while yawning
  • Persistent ringing in the ears and ear pain
  • Morning headaches and tension in the temples

Jaw misalignment, marked by pain and restricted movement, significantly affects patients’ social lives and daily activities.

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