jaw ache

The temporomandibular joint, or TMJ, essentially connects the skull to the jawbone - so needless to say, but it's a very important joint in the human body. It's crucial for routine tasks such as eating, talking, yawning and more. However, despite the importance of the TMJ, it's also a joint that is very problematic.

How problematic? The joint is so problematic that it's estimated as many as 10 million Americans suffer from TMJ disorder, which is characterized as any pain or dysfunction of the joint. TMJ disorder varies in severity based on the individual - and as you might expect, people respond differently to treatment as well. For some individuals, TMJ pain just goes away on its own. Others might require orthodontic work to resolve lingering issues. While TMJ disorder greatly varies based on the patient, some things related to the joint's dysfunction are common. For instance, the symptoms of TMJ. This post will take a look at the top 10 symptoms associated with TMJ disorder.

Top 10 Symptoms of TMJ Disorder

  1. Pain: First and foremost, pain and discomfort anywhere in the face is often an indication of TMJ disorder. This pain may occur when you aren't doing anything or it may only occur when you yawn, talk or chew.
  2. Popping/Clicking Sound: A popping or clicking sound when you open your mouth is a sign of TMJ disorder. For some, this popping is painful, for others it's not.
  3. Ear Pain: Pain anywhere in the face is characteristic of TMJ disorder, but pain in the ears is something to especially be on the lookout for.
  4. Ringing of the Ears (Tinnitus): Along the lines of ear pain, any buzzing or ringing in the ear could indicate TMJ disorder.
  5. Regular Headaches: Often times, these are tension headaches.
  6. Stiffness or Soreness in the Jaw: You may not feel pain in the jaw, but recurring stiffness or soreness could be a sign of TMJ disorder.
  7. Pain in the Temple/Sinus Area: Similar to headaches, tension can build in the temple and sinus area if TMJ issues are present.
  8. Locking of the Jaw: This can be a scary situation where the jaw locks and won't move. It's also a sign of TMJ disorder.
  9. Facial Swelling: Whenever there's facial stiffness, pain or soreness, there's also likely to be swelling. Hence, this is another sign of TMJ disorder.
  10. Odd or Uncomfortable Bite: Last but not least, a suddenly noticeable odd or uncomfortable bite can be a sign of TMJ disorder. Usually TMJ pain caused by an odd bite can be resolved with orthodontic work.

For more information on TMJ disorder, signs, symptoms and treatment methods, contact Kanehl Dental today.