The temporomandibular joint (TMJ) connects the jawbone to the skull. Any damage to this joint can cause a range of symptoms, collectively known as TMJ disorders (TMD). Fortunately, you don't have to live with jaw pain for the rest of your life.
If you're experiencing any of the symptoms mentioned below, you may be suffering from temporomandibular joint disorder. Contact our Santa Clara, CA, dentist today to schedule a TMJ evaluation, and we'll recommend the best treatment for you.
One of the most common symptoms of TMJ disorder is pain and tenderness in the jaw joint area. This pain can be mild or severe and may worsen when you chew or open your mouth. Some people also experience a dull ache or pressure in the jaw, and the pain may radiate to other facial muscles and parts of the neck or shoulders.
If you hear clicking or popping sounds when you open or close your mouth, it may be a sign of TMJ disorder. The sound is caused by the disc that cushions the joint from moving out of place. While this symptom isn’t always painful, it can be a cause for concern if it’s accompanied by other TMJ disorder symptoms.
If you have difficulty opening or closing your mouth, it could be a sign of TMD. This symptom can make it difficult to eat, speak, or even yawn. In severe cases, you may not be able to open your mouth for more than a few millimeters.
In more severe cases, the jaw may become locked in an open or closed position. A locked jaw can be temporary or prolonged, and it often requires medical intervention to release the jaw.
TMJ disorder can cause headaches, particularly in the temples or behind the eyes. These headaches may be constant or intermittent and may be accompanied by other symptoms such as dizziness or ringing in the ears.
TMJ-related pain can sometimes be mistaken for dental issues, leading to toothaches even when there's no dental problem. This occurs because the nerves that serve the jaw and teeth are interconnected.
Some individuals with TMJ disorders may experience tinnitus, which is the perception of ringing, buzzing, or hissing sounds in the ears. This is due to the proximity of the ear structures to the jaw joints
Pain in the face, especially around the cheeks, temples, or below the eyes, is a common symptom of TMJ disorders. This pain can be dull, aching, or sharp. Pain from the jaw joint can also radiate to the neck and shoulders, leading to muscle tension and discomfort in these areas.
Bruxism, or teeth grinding, is a common symptom of TMJ disorder. Grinding your upper and lower teeth together can cause further damage to the jaw joint and exacerbate other symptoms, such as jaw pain and headaches. Some people may grind their teeth during sleep and may not be aware of the problem until they experience TMD symptoms.
Temporomandibular joint symptoms are typically felt in the jaw joint area but can also radiate to other parts of the face, neck, and shoulders.
Areas where TMJ symptoms occur include:
There are several types of temporomandibular joint disorders, and the symptoms may vary depending on the specific condition. The most common types of TMJ disorders include:
If you're experiencing pain or discomfort in your jaw joint or jaw muscles, as well as clicking or popping sounds when you open and close your mouth, you may have TMD. Other symptoms may include difficulty chewing or biting, aching or pain in the face or neck, and swelling on one or both sides of the face. If you're experiencing these symptoms, seek evaluation and treatment from a doctor.
Yes, TMD can make it difficult to eat or speak, particularly if you're experiencing pain, stiffness, or a limited range of motion in the jaw. Other symptoms that may affect your ability to eat or speak include clicking or popping sounds when you open and close your mouth. You may also experience the feeling of your jaw getting stuck or locked in place. If you're experiencing difficulty eating or speaking, seek evaluation and treatment from your dentist.
Chronic cluster, migraine, or tension headaches can sometimes be misinterpreted as symptoms of TMJ disorder, primarily because TMJ disorder itself can trigger similar headache patterns. Additionally, persistent sinus pain and sinus infections may generate discomfort around the temples, mimicking the sensations associated with TMJ disorder.
If you're experiencing any signs or symptoms of TMD, schedule an appointment with our Santa Clara, CA, dentist today. Early intervention can help prevent long-term complications and improve your quality of life. Our dentist may recommend treatments such as physical therapy, prescription medications, or surgical options, depending on your case.
Call our dental office at (408) 549-1602 to schedule a consultation.
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