Do I Have TMJ? Common Signs & Symptoms

TMJ, or TMJ disorder, is a condition affecting the joints that are responsible for the movement of your jaw. It is a common problem with a variety of causes, but it can be successfully treated. 

Do you think you may have TMJ? Learn the common signs and symptoms that can indicate TMJ disorder. 

What is TMJ Disorder? 

TMJ disorder affects the temporomandibular joints located on each side of your face where your lower jaw connects to your skull. This hinge joint can become irritated, inflamed, or misaligned, resulting in pain and limited range of motion. 

Signs and Symptoms of TMJ Disorder 

The common signs and symptoms of TMJ disorder may include any of the following: 

• Pain in your jaw
• Headaches in the temple region of your head
• Limited range of motion when opening your mouth
• Tension in your neck and facial muscles 
• A popping or clicking sound when you open and close your mouth
• Ear pain
• Jaw locked shut (can’t open your mouth at all)

Causes of TMJ Disorder

TMJ disorder may be caused by a wide variety of situations. 

• Excessive chewing. If you are constantly chewing gum, ice, hard foods, or even things that are not food, the constant movement can put strain on your TMJ, resulting in irritation. 
• Teeth grinding. Grinding or clenching your teeth together can put excess strain on your TMJ. 
• Injury to the jaw or side of the face. A blow to the jaw or side of the face can result in misalignment of the TMJ. 
• Arthritis. Arthritis is a condition that causes inflammation of the joints. It can also affect the temporomandibular joint, resulting in TMJ disorder. 
• Auto-immunce diseases. Some auto-immune diseases such as rheumatoid arthritis, lupus, and sjogren's syndrome can lead to TMJ disorder. 

Treatment for TMJ Disorder 

TMJ disorder can be treated in a variety of ways, beginning with treatments you can apply at home. If self treatment is not effective, professional treatment may be necessary. Your dentist is the best medical professional to see for TMJ. 

• Self Treatment. Apply ice, rest your jaw as much as possible, and take over the counter anti-inflammatory pain medication, such as ibuprofen. Eating a soft diet can help your jaw remain at rest, preventing further irritation of the joint. 
• Dental Treatment. Your dentist can offer additional treatments if your symptoms persist. A bite splint can help realign your TMJ to reduce inflammation. A mouthguard can absorb the force of teeth grinding and clenching. Your dentist can also show you exercises that you can do to relieve the tension in your TMJ. 
• Surgical Treatment. If the damage to your TMJ is too significant for other treatments, surgery may be required to rebuild the joint. 

Frequently Asked Questions About TMJ Disorder 

Can TMJ disorder be cured? 

By getting to the source of TMJ, the disorder can be cured. This may require surgery, orthodontic treatment, or other interventions that prevent strain and damage to the temporomandibular joints. 

How do I know when to seek treatment? 

If your TMJ symptoms persist for a week or more, even with self treatment, seek professional care. In cases of severe pain or inability to open your mouth at all, seek professional treatment right away. 

Do You Have TMJ? 

If you have any of the common symptoms of TMJ, schedule an evaluation with Hewlett Dental Excellence. We can provide diagnosis and treatment to relieve your symptoms now and in the long term. Our goal is to restore the health of your TMJ and prevent future flare ups. 

Call 516-569-5566 or contact us today to learn more and schedule an appointment.