TMJ disorder occurs when the temporomandibular joint is injured or overworked. The joint is responsible for connecting the skull and the jawbone, and it plays an important role in the jaw movement. When TMJ disorder develops, symptoms develop and can worsen without appropriate treatment.
There are many different symptoms of TMJ disorder, but some TMJ symptoms are more common than others. Four of the more commonly reported symptoms of TMJ include jaw pain and soreness, stiff or locked jaw, chronic ear pain and a clicking sound in the jaw.
Jaw pain is perhaps the most common symptom of TMJ disorder. This is because the TMJ plays a direct role in the function of the jaw. When the joint becomes injured, then the jaw has a harder time functioning properly, which can lead to pain. Jaw soreness is also common, especially if the cause of TMJ disorder is teeth grinding. This is because the jaw becomes worn-down and overworked, leading to the jaw feeling weak and sore.
Stiff or locked jaw occurs when the temporomandibular joints become locked. This can also lead to other symptoms as well, such as difficulty chewing. The severity of this symptom varies. Minor stiffness is not a huge concern, but a locked jaw that is difficult or impossible to open requires prompt attention from a dentist. There are several ways a dentist can treat this symptom. They may seek to relieve inflammation and soreness through anti-inflammatory medication, along with ensuring the jaw is protected by wearing a mouthguard at night.
TMJ disorder affects more than just the jaw. The pain can also spread to the ear and other parts of the face as well. When this occurs, it is a sign that the TMJ disorder is more serious and requires diagnosis and treatment from a dentist. More severe instances may also affect the person’s ability to hear, and there may also be a popping sound in the ear and pain in the temple area.
The dentist will likely check to see if there is a clicking sound in the jaw when diagnosing patients who show other symptoms of TMJ disorder. A jaw may produce a clicking sound while opening and closing due to injury or soreness of the temporomandibular joint. Although this symptom is not overly severe, it does often suggest a trip to the dentist for diagnosis and treatment is necessary as it is a sign of a larger concern. Without prompt treatment, TMJ disorder can grow worse and make the treatment more invasive and expensive.
If you have symptoms of TMJ disorder and want to arrange a consultation visit with an experienced dentist, then reach out to our friendly dental team today. We are glad to help you with an accurate diagnosis of your symptoms as well as explaining all available treatment options so that you can make an informed decision.
Request an appointment here: https://www.myddsny.com or call Inna Goykman-Amir DDS at (718) 416-6364 for an appointment in our Brooklyn office.
Check out what others are saying about our dental services on Yelp: TMJ Dentist in Brooklyn, NY.
TMJ disorder is an issue that affects many Americans each year. It leads to jaw pain, limited jaw movement and other symptoms. Dentists can diagnose, treat and prevent TMJ disorder through a variety of methods. It is helpful to understand how the diagnostic and treatment process works for TMJ to determine if you should visit…
A porcelain crown is a versatile dental restoration that protects and preserves damaged, weakened, or decayed natural teeth. By encasing the visible portion of a tooth, a porcelain crown restores its function, strength, and appearance. This treatment effectively saves a natural tooth from further damage, ensuring long-term oral health and maintaining the aesthetics of your…
Many general dentists offer dental implant restoration to treat tooth loss. They can also repair the dental implant restoration if anything happens, or they may recommend the patient to an oral surgeon for the most effective treatment if severe concerns develop. It is beneficial to understand what options you have if anything goes wrong with your…
With dental veneers, a dentist can change the tooth’s size, color, and length by attaching these tiny porcelain pieces to its surface. Veneers are a popular solution for many cosmetic dental problems, including chipping, gaps, and discoloration. Although porcelain veneers are a sturdy and durable choice, they require proper maintenance to last long.Dental veneers will…
A porcelain crown is a versatile dental restoration that protects and preserves damaged, weakened, or decayed natural teeth. By encasing the visible portion of a tooth, a porcelain crown restores its function, strength, and appearance. This treatment effectively saves a natural tooth from further damage, ensuring long-term oral health and maintaining the aesthetics of your…
Many general dentists offer dental implant restoration to treat tooth loss. They can also repair the dental implant restoration if anything happens, or they may recommend the patient to an oral surgeon for the most effective treatment if severe concerns develop. It is beneficial to understand what options you have if anything goes wrong with your…