If you have ever had pain in your jaw or while chewing, you may have a TMJ disorder that warrants treatment from a dental specialist.
The temporomandibular joint, commonly referred to as TMJ, is a joint found on either side of your head, near your ear. This joint connects your lower jaw to your skull, allowing you to eat, speak, yawn, laugh, and more. When the joint is not working properly, it can result in symptoms you can feel.
Here are 3 symptoms of TMJ disorders you will not want to ignore. Treatment is available — as long as you address them.
Difficulty Chewing
As mentioned, the TMJ is what allows your lower jaw to move so that you may chew your food. If you are having difficulty doing so, your joint could be the one to blame.
With TMJ disorders, patients often complain of having difficulty opening and closing their mouths. Biting down and asserting pressure can also lead to pain that makes it difficult to chew, especially hard foods.
You can give your joints a break by sticking to soft foods. This will reduce the amount of pain you feel and will help calm down any inflammation. A more permanent solution would be to make an appointment with your dentist.
Severe Pain
Pain is a common complaint for those with TMJ disorders. While it is often found in the jaw, it can radiate causing pain in the ear, the neck, and even the shoulders.
Initially, TMJ pain may come and go. It may hurt, but not enough to cause a major disruption in daily life. Without treatment, this pain can get more intense and can even become chronic.
If you are dealing with a lot of pain when you open or close your mouth, try to eat, or just make it through your daily routine, it is time to contact your dentist. With the right attention, your pain can be reduced and healing can begin.
Frequent Headaches
Headaches can occur for many different reasons, such as stress, hormonal changes, medications, and infections. But they can also occur if you are suffering from a TMJ disorder. This is a common symptom that should not be overlooked.
Most of the time, but not always, headaches are accompanied by pain in the jaw or stiffness in the neck, as well as trouble chewing.
If you are dealing with chronic headaches, seek treatment from your dentist.
Frequently Asked Questions about TMJ
Can I treat TMJ myself?
Relaxing the jaw, eating soft foods, and taking over-the-counter pain relievers can often help resolve minor TMJ pain at home. However, you are not getting to the root cause and the pain will likely return. Seek treatment for your TMJ disorder and find long-lasting relief.
Can you have TMJ pain only on one side?
Yes, it is possible to have TMJ pain on one or both sides.
TMJ Treatment at San Francisco Dental Wellness
Treatment is available for TMJ disorders.
At San Francisco Dental Wellness, Dr. Chui specializes in the treatment of TMJ disorders. So much so that he is the Clinical Director of the San Francisco VA Medical Center where he provides effective treatment to veterans suffering from complex TMJ conditions.
To find relief for yourself, contact our office today at 415-781-1944.