Don't grind your teeth!" I admonish this warning to my two-year old son. Doesn't he know he might be at risk for temporomandibular joint (TMJ) syndrome? OK, he may be too young to realize it, but TMJ syndrome describes a multitude of disorders that can cause pain in the jaw, in the area right in front of the ears. More common in women than in men, if affects about 50% of all Americans, although only about 15% actually see their doctor about it. TMJ syndrome is also known as TMJ dysfunction and has been closely linked with myofascial pain syndrome and fibromyalgia.

What is the temporomandibular joint?

The temporomandibular joint is the joint that connects the lower jaw to the skull. We use this joint all the time when we talk or eat. You can feel the joint yourself by placing your finger just in front of your ear and then opening and closing your jaw.

What causes TMJ syndrome?

Because it is defined as a syndrome, we really are not sure how it starts. However, people who grind their teeth (especially at night) can develop TMJ problems. Many people don't know they grind their teeth, and will only find out from their spouse. Jaw clenching (also know as bruxism) can also produce TMJ syndrome. Other causes include trauma to the jaw area. Many physicians believe there is a strong psychologic component to TMJ syndrome, as people who grind their teeth due it uncontrollably as a tension-relieving measure. Problems of teeth alignment, other dental or anatomic abnormalities, injury, or arthritis may also cause TMJ syndrome.

What are the symptoms of TMJ syndrome?

Symptoms of TMJ syndrome usually consists of a dull, boring pain located near the jaw. You may also have headaches and earaches, or hear a grating or clicking sound when opening your mouth. Dizziness and ringing in the ears may also occur. TMJ syndrome can be especially painful when chewing food. It is not unusual for the jaw to lock.

How is TMJ syndrome treated?

To treat TMJ syndrome, your doctor will most likely try conservative measures first. Local heat and massage can give immediate relief. Pain relieving medications such as the non steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) ibuprofen or naprosyn, or a trigger point injection may also be prescribed. Counseling or psychotherapy may also be recommended to decrease anxiety and tension. Sometimes, a nighttime corrective appliance, or splint is used to prevent grinding.

If the above measures aren't working, the patient may be referred for better imaging of the jaw to determine if there is a displacement. Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) techniques are often used in this case. Oral surgery is often reserved for severe cases. If there is a problem with your teeth, you may need to see your dentist.

What self-care measures can I use?

The best way to prevent TMJ syndrome from occurring is to stop grinding your teeth. Some ways to take care of this problem is to switch to soft foods to diminish pain while chewing or limiting hard or chewy foods. For instance don't chew gum. Avoiding excessive yawning is also helpful and any ways you can relieve stress will also help. Lastly, over-the-counter (OTC) aspirin or ibuprofen can ease the pain, as well as placing a heating pad near the painful region.