If you’ve been experiencing discomfort or pain in your jaw, you may be suffering from a temporomandibular joint disorder (TMJ). TMJ is a condition that can cause a variety of symptoms, including jaw pain, stiffness, limited range of motion, and difficulty chewing.
Learn more about the warning signs of TMJ disorder when you continue reading below.
1. Your Jaw Is Stuck
When it comes to TMJ, the most common symptom is jaw pain. If your jaw is stuck or out of place, and you hear popping and clicking sounds when you move it, it’s time to visit a TMJ dentist. A TMJ dentist can help diagnose the cause of your discomfort and provide you with the best treatment options. In some cases, the dentist may recommend a custom-fitted mouthguard or splint to help reduce muscle tension and alleviate jaw pain.
2. You Hear Popping and Clicking Signs in Your Jaw
Another common warning sign of TMJ disorder is popping and clicking sounds coming from your jaw joints. This sound is typically caused by the cartilage in the jaw joint that has become worn or misaligned. It’s important to see a TMJ dentist if you hear these noises in order to prevent further damage to the jaw joints.
3. Your Jaw Is Out of Place
If you find that your jaw is out of place, it may be a sign of TMJ disorder. If your jaw is not in its correct position, it can be painful and can lead to further discomfort. A TMJ dentist can help you realign your jaw and provide treatments to reduce pain and improve your overall health.
4. You Have Headaches Similar to Migraines
If you’re experiencing headaches that feel similar to migraines, it may be a sign that your TMJ is not functioning normally. These headaches can be sharp and throbbing, and they usually start around your temples. They may also be accompanied by pain in the head or neck, ringing in the ears, or even dizziness or lightheadedness.
5. You Have Difficulty Opening and Closing Your Mouth
If you’re having difficulty opening and closing your mouth, it could be due to a TMJ disorder. TMJ disorders can cause the joint to become inflamed and stiff, which can make it difficult to open and close your mouth. A TMJ dentist can help diagnose the disorder and recommend treatments to help loosen the joint and reduce the pain.
6. You Hear Ringing
Ringing in the ears, also known as tinnitus, is another common symptom of a TMJ disorder. The ringing can be caused by inflammation and tension in the jaw joint. A TMJ dentist can help diagnose the disorder and recommend treatments to reduce the pain and other symptoms.
7. You Have Difficulty Chewing
If you are having difficulty chewing your food or have a clicking or popping sound in your jaw when you chew, it could be a sign of TMJ disorder.
Final Thoughts
If you’re experiencing any of the above warning signs, it’s important to visit a TMJ dentist as soon as possible. A TMJ dentist can provide treatments that can help reduce pain and improve the health of your jaw joints. Don’t wait to seek treatment; contact a TMJ dentist today and start on the path to better jaw health.
Discuss your TMJ treatment options with our expert team at Manassas Smiles. As the best dental clinic in Manassas, you can rest assured that you will receive safe and high-quality dental services for your needs. Book a consultation now for more information.