Common Symptoms of TMJ

If your jaw is misaligned, the surrounding muscles are not able to fully relax, creating tension, pain and temporomandibular joint disorder (TMD or TMJ). Many people who suffer from TMJ are unable to identify the cause of their condition, because there are a number of symptoms that are often diagnosed as another ailment. Few people seek the appropriate help due to this misdiagnosis or because they have learned how to deal with their symptoms.

TMJ Symptoms

A neuromuscular dentist can perform different diagnostic tests to determine whether or not you are suffering from TMJ. However, if you are suffering from one or several of the following symptoms, there is good chance that TMJ is causing them:

• Jaw pain, clicking, popping or “lockjaw”
• Headaches and migraines
• Neck pain, shoulder pain or upper back pain
• Blurred vision
• Difficulty eating or chewing
• Tooth pain
• Teeth that are loose or falling out
• Jaw clenching or tooth grinding
• Damaged dental crowns or dental bridges
• Soreness in your face
• Jaw grinding
• Congestion or ringing in your ears
• Insomnia

The Effects of TMJ

TMJ can have significant impacts on your quality of life. The pain associated with this condition can prevent you from engaging in your favorite activities, or even essential daily activities. If your teeth are wearing down too quickly or cracking, it can affect your self-esteem and put your oral and general health at risk. TMJ can result in speech irregularities due to abnormal lip posture and a sore lower jaw. You may also find it difficult to eat certain foods, which can interfere with your proper nutrition and hinder your overall health.

You do not have to deal with pain and other symptoms associated with TMJ. A neuromuscular dentist  uses techniques like a sonography to record your jaw sounds and locate irregular jaw movements .Electromyography (EMG) can also monitor the tension in your jaw muscles and help pinpoint the location of imbalances in those jaw muscles.

To learn more, please see Questions about TMJ/TMD Treatment.

If you live in the Valencia, California area and are experiencing symptoms of TMJ, Aesthetic Dentistry of Valencia can help you find relief. Please contact our office to schedule your free consultation. You have nothing to lose, so please call today!