What is TMJ disorder? Zoe Ball reveals painful condition
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Radio 2 host Zoe Ball, 54, has spoken candidly about a troublesome jaw issue she deals with.
In an Instagram update to her 739,000 followers, the radio host posted images of herself before and after undergoing a treatment at a clinic in London. She mentioned, "I suffer from TMJ and often wake up with terrible headaches due to muscle tension and jaw clenching."
"I can't thank Helen @thesculptresslondon enough for her amazing work. Just look at my face after my visit with her! If you want to see the difference, take a look at my before picture—yikes—that's quite a transformation!"
The 54-year-old revealed earlier this month that she would be leaving her position as the host of Radio 2’s Breakfast show after six years. Scott Mills is expected to take over the role.
Ball posted a picture of her face looking tense right before her treatment, along with a relaxed version of her face afterward. She expressed her deep gratitude to the clinic that has supported her.
Understanding TMJ Disorder: What You Need To Know
“TMJ refers to the temporomandibular joint, the pivotal hinge that links your jawbone to your skull,” says Dr. Rizwan Mahmood, a dentist and co-founder of Rüh Dental. “This joint plays a crucial role in important actions such as talking, eating, and yawning. It’s essential for everyday activities, and any problems with it can lead to considerable pain.”
Many individuals commonly use the term TMJ to describe the issue, but the correct term is actually TMD.
"TMJ denotes the joint itself, while TMD (temporomandibular disorder) encompasses the different issues that can impact the joint and the nearby muscles," explains Mahmood.
There are three primary categories of temporomandibular disorders.
Anni Seaborne, the head of general dentistry at Bupa Dental Care, identified the primary categories as joint issues (such as disc complications within the joint), muscle issues (which impact the muscles used for chewing), and headaches associated with TMD.
TMJ Disorder Symptoms Explained
"Symptoms may involve discomfort in the jaw, ears, neck, or shoulders, along with limited jaw movement or a jaw that feels stuck," explains Seaborne. "Individuals often report clicking, popping, or grinding noises when they move their jaw, as well as headaches and a sensation that their bite is off."
"Symptoms usually get better by themselves, but they can become more severe when you're under stress, chewing, or grinding your teeth."
Could it result in any issues?
Mahmood cautions that if TMD is not addressed, it may result in ongoing pain, restricted movement of the jaw, and potentially permanent harm to the jaw joint. Additionally, it can lead to headaches, ear issues, and challenges with talking or eating.
Is there a way to treat it?
“Typically, it can resolve on its own, and there are some tips for handling symptoms at home,” explains Nyree Whitley, the chief clinical officer at my dentist. “This could involve consuming softer foods that are easier to chew, using over-the-counter pain relievers like paracetamol or ibuprofen to alleviate any discomfort, cutting back on habits like nail biting, jaw clenching, or grinding teeth, and applying a hot or cold compress to the face.”
Sometimes, your dentist might suggest wearing a mouth guard during the night or even during the day to help keep your teeth safe.
If the symptoms continue for over three months, surgery might be an option to explore.
"In such situations, a specialist might suggest alternative therapies such as jaw adjustments performed under anesthesia, injections of muscle relaxants, or surgical options for more severe cases, like fixing or replacing the joint," explains Seaborne.
