Internal Joint Derangement
You Don’t Have to Live With Jaw Pain
If you struggle with chronic jaw pain, you know how debilitating it can be. However, there are various treatment options for those with temporomandibular joint disorders. If you suspect you’re living with a TMJ disorder (TMD), contact our dentist today. We’ll evaluate your health and recommend the best course of action.
Get started today by contacting our Jupiter dental office at (561) 744-0677.
What Is Internal Joint Derangement?
Internal joint derangement (IJD) is a TMJ condition where the structures within a joint, such as ligaments, tendons, cartilage, or menisci, are damaged or displaced. It’s caused by injury, overuse, or degenerative changes in the joint
Types of Internal Joint Derangement
There are two types of internal joint derangement:
- Disc Displacement With Reduction: The disc moves out of its normal position but returns when the jaw opens or closes. Patients often hear a clicking or popping sound and experience mild discomfort.
- Disc Displacement Without Reduction: The disc does not return to its proper place, causing more severe pain, limited jaw mobility, and potential jaw locking. This type often requires more aggressive treatment.
Causes of Internal Joint Derangement
Various factors can cause IJD, including:
- Trauma to the jaw joint
- Arthritis
- Misaligned bite (malocclusion)
- Bruxism (excessive teeth grinding or clenching)
Internal Joint Derangement Symptoms
Symptoms of internal joint derangement can vary depending on the severity of the condition. Some common symptoms include:
- Jaw pain (especially when chewing or speaking)
- Clicking or popping sounds
- Restricted jaw movement
- Locking of the jaw
- Headaches, earaches, and tinnitus (ringing in the ears)
If you suspect you have IJD or a similar type of TMJ disorder, don’t wait to seek treatment. Call our dental office at (561) 744-0677 today to schedule a consultation with our Jupiter dentist.
Treatments for Internal Joint Derangement
Treatment for IJD will depend on the severity of the condition and the underlying cause.
Common treatments for mild cases include:
- Oral Appliances: Anterior repositioning devices are custom-made to reposition the jaw, helping the disc return to its normal position. These appliances reduce strain on the jaw joint and alleviate symptoms.
- Pain Management: This includes over-the-counter pain relievers or prescription medications, along with corticosteroid injections to reduce inflammation in severe cases.
- Physical Therapy: Exercises to improve jaw flexibility and strength, combined with techniques to reduce muscle tension.
- Lifestyle Modifications: Changes in diet and avoiding habits like gum chewing, which can exacerbate the condition.
For more severe cases where conservative treatments are ineffective, minimally invasive surgeries such as arthrocentesis or arthroscopic surgery may be required to realign or repair the joint.
Who Develops Internal Joint Derangement?
Internal joint derangement can occur in anyone, regardless of age or gender. However, certain factors can increase the risk of developing the condition, such as:
- History of trauma to the jaw joint
- Misaligned bite
- History of arthritis
- Excessive teeth grinding or clenching
Frequently Asked Questions
Diagnosis of internal joint derangement typically involves a comprehensive medical history review, physical examination, and imaging tests such as X-rays, MRIs, or CT scans. The doctor may also perform a joint aspiration, which involves inserting a needle into the joint to remove and analyze fluid.
While internal joint derangement primarily affects the temporomandibular joint, it can also cause referred pain in other areas of the head and neck, such as the ears, cheeks, and temples. In some cases, it can also lead to headaches, neck pain, and facial muscle spasms.
Internal joint derangement is a relatively common condition, mostly seen in people between the ages of 20 and 50, and is more frequent in women than men. However, it can affect individuals of all ages, including children. The incidence of internal joint derangement may be increasing due to factors such as stress, poor diet, and lack of physical activity.
Preventing internal joint derangement can be challenging, but some measures can reduce the risk of developing the condition. These include practicing good posture, avoiding chewing gum and other hard or chewy foods, and reducing stress. It’s also wise to seek prompt treatment for jaw or facial injuries.
Find Relief for Internal Joint Derangement Symptoms
If you’re suffering from jaw pain, clicking or popping sounds, or restricted movement, schedule an appointment today. Our team in Jupiter, FL, is ready to help diagnose and treat your condition.
Don’t let your symptoms worsen—contact our office at (561) 744-0677 to get started on the path to relief. We proudly serve patients from Jupiter and surrounding areas, including Hobe Sound, Limestone Creek, and Tequesta, FL.