TMJ disorder, which encapsulates a range of issues that affect your temporomandibular joints (TMJs). These joints connect your lower jaw to your skull and provide movement for your mouth. TMJ disorder can make opening and closing your mouth difficult and lead to chronic discomfort. The disorder has a wide range of symptoms that can sometimes be difficult to diagnose as TMJ disorder. Some people live with constant headaches or face pain for years without ever realizing that it could be stemming from their jaw. While your dentist can best help you with a diagnosis, there are some signs to look out for that may be pointing toward TMJ disorder.
Do You Feel or Hear Popping/Clicking?
TMJ disorder is often the result of an imbalanced or misaligned bite. Because of this imbalance, people suffering from TMJ disorder can often feel or hear popping and clicking as the jaw tries to realign itself. If your jaw pops when you chew or talk, it could be a symptom of TMJ disorder.
Do You Grind Your Teeth?
In times of stress, you may find yourself clenching your jaw and grinding your teeth. When teeth-grinding is habitual and done unconsciously, it is called bruxism. Bruxism can be caused by misalignment or TMJ disorder. Conversely, the stress on the jaw from years of grinding teeth can actually lead to TMJ disorder. Each condition can be both the symptom and the cause of each other.
Are You In Constant Pain?
Chronic headaches can be the result of the stress caused by TMJ disorder. Consistent pain in your face or jaw itself can be a sign of the disorder, but pain near your temples, ears, shoulder, and neck are areas that you may not think to be related to a malfunction of your jaw. Treating TMJ disorder can help eliminate some of the pain affecting your daily life.
If you have TMJ disorder, it can be treated.
Treating TMJ disorder can provide relief to your smile. To schedule a consultation, call Grinnell Street Dental at (307) 672-7567. Located in Sheridan, WY, we also proudly serve the residents of Gillette, Billings, Miles City, and all surrounding communities.
