Possible Signs of TMJ Disorder

Understanding the possible signs of TMJ (temporomandibular joint) disorder can help you and your dentist determine if you need treatment. Busy days and demanding schedules tend to mask any developing sign. Slight pain or discomfort in your jaw may be a cry for help already. If you want to know the possible signs of TMJ disorder, here are the details.

Ear pain

Pain in the ears is a distinct sign of this disorder. The temporomandibular joint is in front of each ear. Pain while chewing, yawning, or talking can spread toward the ears. Jaw overuse can result in muscle spasms, pressure, and tenderness in the jaw muscles. The discomfort can radiate into the patient’s ear. Some head and neck injuries can bring trauma to the TMJ.

Seeing a dentist for ear pain can spot the primary cause of pain. This can also be a symptom of arthritis. Bruxism or teeth grinding can also result in this pain. A soft diet, a mouthguard, and some over-the-counter pain medication can relieve the pain.

Jaw pain

Many factors can contribute to this type of pain. Nerve issues, physical injuries, or blood vessel problems are primary considerations. TMJ pain is a common condition in many patients. It often occurs in the jaw muscles or joints. Mild or severe pain can happen even if the patient does not use the jaw. The length of the pain episode also varies.

Headaches

Chewing muscles cover the jaw and cheeks. The pain often spreads to the sides of the head and the cheeks. Headaches can result from severe tension in the jaw from injuries or teeth grinding. It can be challenging to differentiate between a general type of pain and TMJ pain. Head pain with clicking jaw noises, bite changes, and tight facial muscles are signs of a jaw joint disorder. Lifestyle changes and avoiding pain-triggering jaw movements can help manage pain in the jaw.

Locked jaw

Dislocation of the temporomandibular joint results in a locked jaw. The patient will experience much discomfort if the jaw locks when the mouth opens. It will be frustrating and painful to close the mouth. The dentist or doctor can correct the jaw dislocation. Local anesthetics or muscle relaxants can minimize the pain while repositioning the condyle.

Neck pain

This sign tends to differ in degree among patients. TMJ inflammation can spread to the muscles, nerves, and blood vessels surrounding the jaw. The pain from this can even radiate to the neck, especially during jaw movements. The pain often starts on the same side of the affected jaw.

Malocclusion

In normal anatomy, the upper teeth must overlap the lower teeth a little. A patient with malocclusion has an incorrect alignment. This is a common sign of TMJ disorder. This causes an uncomfortable bite. The patient often ends up biting the inner cheeks or the tongue.

Your dentist can help identify the signs of TMJ disorder

Pain in the jaw may be a general type of pain. It may also be a definite sign of TMJ disorder. Guessing what it is will not be beneficial for your health. Seeing your dentist or doctor can confirm what your pain is and treat it right away.

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