Possible Causes of TMD
Some possible causes of TMD. (Often more than one factor is responsible for TMJ pain and dysfunction.)
| Trauma such as an automobile accident or a blow to the head. | |
| Neuromuscular imbalances that cause misalignment of the mandible with the bones of the head. | |
| Malocclusion and/or missing teeth. | |
| Oral habits, such as clenching and grinding of the teeth and postural habits, such as cradling a telephone between the head and shoulder. | |
| Systemic diseases, notably rheumatoid arthritis, or osteoarthritis. |
Muscle dysfunction and pain can still occur even with normal, healthy TMJs. To determine if the intracapsular structures are functioning normally and the TMJ is healthy, there are six procedures we can use:
| Screening history. Patient responses and information gathered from specific tests often determine the condition of the intracapsular structures. Patient history also indicates the need for further testing. | |
| Load test. This is the most helpful test because it verifies the comfort in centric relation or adapted centric posture. If a TMJ can accept firm loading without signs of tension or tenderness, then it is considered healthy. | |
| Range of Movement and Path of Movement Tests. Careful observation of range and direction of movements can pinpoint any variations from normal function. | |
| Doppler Analysis. Doppler auscultation is a non-invasive test that interprets varying degrees of crepitus and other sounds. A healthy TMJ is quiet during rotation. | |
| Radiography/Imaging. If a TMJ problem is indicated from the History or Doppler analysis, then the joint should be imaged. Imaging should be involved with the combination of the other tests. | |
| Muscle Deprogramming. Muscle deprogramming appliances are often effective in getting the muscles. |
