TMJ - Jaw Joint

The name given to the way you teeth meet when your jaws bite toghether is dental occlusion.  If your teeth don't fit together properly, you can develop 'occlusal' problems.  These can affect your teeth, gums, the temporomandibular joint (the joint that connects your lower jaw to your skull) or even the muscles that move the jaw.

The symptoms associated with poor dental occlusion are varied but include tender teeth, pain in the jaw joints and / or the muscles, headaches, and neck pain.  Together, these symptoms make up what is known as 'TMJ Syndrome'.

Almost 1 in 4 people have symptoms associated with TMJ syndrome, and both men and women are  affected equally.  However, many people who have imperfect occlusion never display any symptoms because they adjust to their problems.

There are several treatment options availablle to treat TMJ syndrome ranging from a simple change in diet (for example, eating softer foods) to fitting an orthodontic appliance to help correct your bite position.  Your dentist is able to advise on the most suitable treatment for each individual case, and, if need be, refer you to a specialist.