What is TMJ Arthropathy?

Temporomandibular joint is the joint which connects the jaw bone to the skull. The joint is located just in front of the ear canal. Inflammation of the joint can cause pain in or around the ear, headache, fullness in the ear or dizziness occasionally.

Causes

Chewing hard food, dental work or improper alignment of the teeth can cause inflammation of the joint

Remedy and Treatment-

• Eating soft food for 2 weeks to rest the joint. Avoid chewing gum and hard food
• Hot fomentation over the joint 3-4 times a day
• Partially open the mouth and touch the tongue to the palate and hold this position for 1 minute. Repeat this exercise 12 times a day
• Pain-killers if necessary It is necessary to see a specialist or an oral surgeon if the problem persists beyond 2 weeks

Consulting your ENT surgeon for medication is necessary if the symptoms persist even after following above precautions. Treatment includes antacid and anti-reflux medication. Some patients may require an endoscopic or radiological evaluation.