The temporomandibular joint, commonly called TMJ, is a small joint, which is located in front of your ear where your lower jaw and skull meet. It allows your lower jaw or mandible to move and function. TMJ disorders are common and have a wide range of symptoms. Read on to learn about the early signs and symptoms of TMJ disorders.
The possible causes of TMJ disorders include arthritis, injury, dislocation, stress and teeth grinding and tooth and jaw alignment. However, in many cases, the exact cause of a person’s TMJ disorder can be hard to determine. There are many symptoms that are associated with TMJ disorders. A person can benefit from knowing the signs and symptoms of TMJ. This will help a patient to seek treatment early. Here are some of the symptoms of TMJ disorders.
Pain, especially in the jaw joint and/or chewing muscles is one of the most common TMJ symptoms. Many people experience pain or tenderness of the jaw or pain in either both or one of the temporomandibular joints. The pain may vary significantly in intensity and may radiate to the neck. Talking, chewing, yawning or any use of the jaw may lead to an increase in pain. Other symptoms associated with a TMJ disorder include migraines or headaches and earaches or pain around the ear that may spread to the cheeks. If the pain is not located near a person’s jaw, a dentist or another health care provider may look for other symptoms and signs before diagnosing a TMJ disorder.
TMJ disorders usually cause a clicking sound or grating sensation when a person chews, talks or simply opens the mouth. A person may experience painful clicking, grating or popping in the jaw joint when closing or opening the mouth. Buzzing, numbness or ringing in the ears can occur alongside earaches. However, noises that occur when a person moves the jaw are not always considered to be symptoms of the disorders. In many cases, jaw noises are common. But if there is pain or movement limitation associated with the noises, a person should seek medical help.
A person may experience limited movement or locking of the jaw. Limited movement can prevent the mouth from being completely opened or the jaw from moving in particular directions. This can cause discomfort in everyday life. A change in the way the lower and upper teeth fit together is also a likely symptom.
You should seek urgent medical attention when you notice or experience the symptoms of TMJ. Seeing a doctor or dentist is highly recommended if you have tenderness or persistent pain in the jaw or you are not able to fully open or close your jaw. Your dentist or doctor can talk to you about the possible causes and treatment options for your problem. If you want to find out more about the early signs and symptoms of TMJ disorders and various treatment options, contact your dentist today.
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