Signs You May Be Suffering From TMJ Issues

Your general dentist can help you with TMJ issues. A proper consultation can help determine if your signs are leading to these problems. Detecting these conditions early can treat them right away. Below are some signs you may need help with TMJ issues.

Pain surrounding the jaw

Sometimes, it is challenging to determine where the pain is coming from. TMJ pain can manifest in various areas, including the neck, ear, and teeth. The patient may also complain about pain in the shoulders and jaw. The general dentist will perform an extensive exam to pinpoint the source of the pain.

Struggling to chew

People with TMJ issues often find it difficult to eat. Chewing is a challenge for these patients. The pain from the jaw or ear can make eating more of a chore. The muscles in the mouth and jaw often work extra hard to help the jaw. In doing so, they cause more pain. It is ideal to rest the jaw until appointment day.

Clicking sounds

The jaw joints should not click when the mouth opens and closes. Yet, studies show that it is the most common issue reported by people with TMJ problems. Let the general dentist know about the clicking sounds. Treatment may not happen right away, but it is an issue that the provider can keep track of.

Headaches

Head pain is a common sign of TMJ disorders. It often manifests when the jaw moves. Waking up with a headache and jaw pain in the morning is common among patients with bruxism. Headaches occur because tension in the jaw muscles radiates to the muscles in the head.

Tired and sore facial muscles

Muscles in the face, jaw, and teeth work together to perform oral functions. The other muscles in this area work harder when the TMJ does not work well. Patients often report facial pain because the facial muscles are strained. Facial swelling may also occur. Research shows that the pain often takes up the side where the jaw joint is not functioning well.

Jaw locking

The TMJ can move out of its place for some reason. It may unhook and then reattach itself for a moment. Patients who experience this condition have a difficult time opening their mouths wide, which can make yawning painful. The jaw may lock in place when this happens. Sometimes, the jaw returns to its normal position. Closing the mouth is possible.

Other signs

Patients do not usually report some signs of TMJ issues. The reason is because these symptoms are non-specific. Patients who experience them often visit a doctor and not a dentist for treatment. These symptoms are ringing in the ears, difficulty hearing, and dizziness.

The treatment

The good news is that TMJ pain may improve without any intervention. Resting the jaw and its surrounding structures can relieve the discomfort. The general dentist will recommend pointers for the patient at home. Here are some of them:

• Wear a night guard while sleeping to prevent teeth grinding
• Stay on a soft diet
• Refrain from chewing gum
• Cut all foods into small pieces
• Refrain from opening the mouth wide
• Avoid jaw clenching
• Perform light jaw-strengthening exercises
• Practice relaxation techniques
• Take over-the-counter pain medication
• Use over-the-counter anti-inflammatory gel