There are a multitude of symptoms that might lead a person to believe they are suffering from TMJ Disorder (Temporamandibular Joint Disorder).
Discomfort in the neck, head, jaw or ear can result if you are clenching or grinding your teeth (usually subconsciously during sleep). Additionally, dental decay, gum disease, ear infection, sinus infection, allergies or anything that impacts those muscles above the neck can result in multiple possibilities that could lead to TMJ Disorder.
An actual diagnosis of TMJ Disorder will follow testing to rule out other problems. Patients suffering from it are dealing with inflammation of the muscles and joints just in front of the ears. The TMJ is the joint that allows the jaw to move up and down as well as side to side. Eating, speaking, smiling, laughing, crying, yawning … each of these actions can put a lot of pressure on those joints.
With TMJ, patients often comment that their jaw makes a clicking sound while chewing, and the jaw can become locked in place. During dental exams, the dentist will usually check the TMJ for unusual movement or inflammation, and will make recommendations such as wearing a mouth guard for patients dealing with concerns.
It can be difficult to assign a specific cause for TMJ. A malocclusion is a misalignment of the upper teeth to the lower teeth. This condition can result in grinding and clenching, which can impact the jaw. The pressure on the jaw can result in swelling of the TMJ.
Holding the mouth open for a long period of time can put stress on the TMJ resulting in discomfort. Trauma to the jaw or chin can produce jaw joint ache, except in unusual cases, the discomfort from inflammation of the TMJ is brief. Heat to the outside of the jaw along with an over the counter analgesic should provide relief.
In some cases, the patient may suffer from severe headache and/or dizziness, ear ache, hearing loss or ringing in the ear. There are a few things to consider that might point to clues of the origin of TMJ inflammation:
• People who suffer from arthritis may be more susceptible
• Chewing gum for long periods of time can contribute
• A malocclusion can result in pressure on the TMJ
• Stress can result in teeth clenching
If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, contact the office of Drs. Bonner & Huriega at 210-616-0858. Our skilled team of dentists can diagnose and offer ways to relieve the pressure and discomfort associated with TMJ.
