Estimates measure more than 10 million people suffer from Temporomandibular Joint Disorder. Most of them suffer in silence because they write the pain off as something else.
TMJ is the primary suspect for most facial muscle and jaw pain, and you need to know the symptoms.
Also known as TMD, the signs of TMJ show up in normal activities. Chewing gum and food or grinding your teeth all induce the pain associated with TMJ. Something as simple as tensing your mouth up when showing emotion causes pain as well.
And unfortunate as it is, TMD affects more women than men. Women experience 90% of the most extreme cases, due to stress, anxiety, and hormones. Still, they both suffer the agony of it.
If you’ve been encountering unexplainable jaw pain, you need to learn these signs. Read on to learn about six common TMJ symptoms.
1. Headaches and Migraines
Headaches are common symptoms of many illnesses and disorders. Temporomandibular Joint Disorder is one of them.
Acute headaches and migraines that stem from TMJ are tensive and unsettling. That’s due to the radiating pain that emanates from the jawbone region.
The temporomandibular joint connects your jawbone to bones on both sides of the head. The pain in this joint and the surrounding muscles lead to unbearable headaches. That’s a major sign you may want to visit a dentist to get a professional opinion.
2. Popping or Clicking Sounds in the Jaw
When the jaw becomes sore or tender, opening and closing it offers temporary relief. An indication that tenderness is TMJ, is a popping or clicking in the jaw.
Audible clicking and popping sounds in the jaw are not normal. It’s not a byproduct of aging. And, you shouldn’t ignore it. That’s a clear warning sign of TMD, and you should get a second opinion about it right away.
3. Sinus Pain
You might find it hard to believe, but in some cases sinus pain indicates TMJ. That’s because the sinuses and the temporomandibular joint are in close proximity.
We have sinuses tucked behind the bones in our cheeks, nose, and between our eyes. When pressure builds up in our sinuses, it travels to the jaw and exasperates TMJ.
This then leads to pain in the jaw, face, ears, and more headaches.
4. Teeth Grinding
Contrary to popular belief, teeth grinding isn’t reserved to stress and anxiety. It’s also a symptom of TMD.
People do it for hours on end without realizing they’re doing it. Some people do it in their sleep and wake up with massive headaches the next morning. If you find yourself grinding your teeth on a regular occurrence, don’t write it off to stress.
A deeper issue—TMJ—might be the culprit. After a while, your teeth become worn and cracking may occur.
5. Tinnitus
Tinnitus is a perceived ringing in the ear. In the past, professionals relegated it to age and years of exposing your ears to excessive noise.
But tinnitus has a relationship with the dysfunction inside of your temporomandibular joint. With other symptoms present, an agitating and paining ringing goes on in the ears.
This signifies a disorder in the TMJ.
6. Double Vision
Double or blurred vision are usual signs you need to get your vision checked. If you do and the report’s positive with persistent blurred vision, call your dentist.
If you’re having vision issues with other TMJ symptoms present, TMD’s affecting your sight. Make a dental appointment right away.
Know the Signs and TMJ Symptoms
Temporomandibular Joint Disorder is no playground for anyone suffering from it. That’s why it’s important to know the TMJ symptoms and signs.
If find yourself relating to any, call a dentist and get a professional diagnosis right away.
Let us help you. Contacts us today about our services.