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Jaw joint dysfunction Q&As

Published by Bupa's health information team, December 2008.

Answers to questions about jaw joint dysfunction

This section contains answers to common questions about this topic. Questions have been suggested by health professionals, website feedback and requests via email.

 

Can I get arthritis in my jaw?

Yes, it's possible to get arthritis in your jaw joints (temporomandibular joints), but it's rare.

Explanation

Arthritis is a condition that causes inflammation (swelling) of your joints. There are several different types of arthritis. Two of the most common types are osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis. Both osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis can occur in your temporomandibular joints. It's also possible to get infectious arthritis in your temporomandibular joints.

Osteoarthritis causes the cartilage in your joints to break down. This is more common in older people. If you have osteoarthritis in your jaw, you will experience a grating feeling when you open and close your mouth. If this happens, you should see your dentist or GP for advice.

Rheumatoid arthritis occurs when your body starts to attack its own cells, causing inflammation. Rheumatoid arthritis can affect your temporomandibular joints, but this is very rare.

Infectious arthritis can be caused if an infection in another area of your body, usually your head or neck, spreads to your jaw. Symptoms of infectious arthritis in your jaw are inflammation, pain and difficulty when you try to open your mouth. You should see your dentist or GP if you're experiencing these symptoms.

Further information

Sources

  • Beers MH, Fletcher AJ, Porter R, et al., The Merck Manual of Medical Information. New York: Pocket Books, 2003: 685-690
  • About arthritis. Arthritis Care. www.arthritiscare.org.uk, accessed 19 September 2008
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Can physical therapy help to reduce the pain of temporomandibular dysfunction?

Yes, physical therapy can help to improve the symptoms of temporomandibular dysfunction. Ask your dentist or GP whether physical therapy would be a suitable treatment for you.

Explanation

There are several types of physical therapy which may be helpful for temporomandibular dysfunction.

Ultrasound therapy uses sound waves to apply heat to the painful area. Heat helps to improve your circulation and reduce the pain in your muscles.

Electromyographic biofeedback is a technique designed to teach you how to relax your muscles properly. During this type of therapy the activity of your jaw muscle is measured with a gauge. You will have to try and relax your jaw muscles while you watch the gauge. Electromyographic biofeedback may teach you how to relax your muscles correctly, although there is little evidence that it works.

Spray and stretch exercises can be helpful. First, a cooling substance is sprayed over your cheeks and temples. This allows your jaw muscles to be stretched. This type of therapy can usually be carried out by your dentist or a physiotherapist.

Friction massages can also help to reduce the pain. A rough towel is rubbed over your cheeks and temples. This helps to increase your circulation and reduce the pain in your muscles.

Further information

Sources

  • Beers MH, Fletcher AJ, Porter R, et al., The Merck Manual of Medical Information. New York: Pocket Books, 2003: 685-690
  • Low back pain (chronic), Non-drug treatments, Electromyographic feedback. BMJ Clinical Evidence. www.clinicalevidence.com, accessed 22 October 2008
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Are there any drugs that I can take to help with my jaw joint problems?

Yes, drug therapy can be helpful for some people.

Explanation

Taking painkillers that you can buy over the counter, such as paracetamol and ibuprofen, should help to relieve the pain. You should always read the patient information leaflet that comes with your medication and ask your pharmacist if you have any questions.

If you're in a lot of pain, your dentist may prescribe a muscle-relaxing drug to help reduce the tightness and pain in your jaw. If you're waiting for a splint to be made, your dentist may prescribe medication to relieve the pain while you wait. However, these drugs can usually only be taken for about a month or less and are often not suitable for older people.

If your temporomandibular dysfunction is related to anxiety, your dentist may prescribe you a drug called diazepam which relaxes your muscles and can also reduce anxiety. Your dentist will usually only prescribe this if you're in a lot of pain, and it can only be taken for a short period of time.

Further information

Sources

  • Beers MH, Fletcher AJ, Porter R, et al., The Merck Manual of Medical Information. New York: Pocket Books, 2003: 685-690
  • Joint Formulary Committee, British National Formulary. 55th ed. London: British Medical Association and Royal Pharmaceutical Society of Great Britain, 2008: 225
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Related topics

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This information was published by Bupa's health information team and is based on reputable sources of medical evidence. It has been peer reviewed by Bupa doctors. The content is intended for general information only and does not replace the need for personal advice from a qualified health professional.

Publication date: December 2008

 

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