What is TMJ

This is an acronym for temporo-mandibular joint which is a fancy way of saying jaw joint. Clinically we refer to problems associated with the jaw joint as TMJ dysfunction syndrome, commonly called TMD.

Who can have TMD

This can effect anyone although it occurs more frequently in women. In 50% of whiplash cases the TMJ is involved. The symptoms can show up sometime after the accident and not be immediately apparent.

TMD symptoms include

• Headaches/Migraine
• Earache - ringing in the ears
• Pain in the jaw joint
• Numbness in fingers
• Facial pain
• Neck, shoulder and back pain
• Worn teeth/broken teeth left untreated TMJ symptoms can get worse with age

Clenching and grinding (parafunction) teeth at night puts you at risk of TMD. You may be unaware of this parafunction, but it is often manifest in headaches and can be a trigger for migraines.

JVA (Joint Vibration Analysis

TMD disorder is often progressive. A minor joint sound now may mean major pain later on. This is where Joint Vibration Analysis comes in.

Unfortunately most doctors and dentists are unaware of the availability of this test. Traditional methods involve palpating the muscles around the jaw joint and feeling for movement. These methods have proven to be statistically inaccurate. More modern approaches have involved x-rays and MRI scans but they expose you to radiation and are costly and they are not as accurate as JVA.

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