Are you experiencing jaw pain, stiffness, or discomfort? It could be a sign of a TMJ disorder, which can cause a variety of symptoms, including headaches, ear pain, and limited jaw movement. One potential treatment for TMJ disorders is orthodontic treatment.
In this blog, we will cover what TMJ means, its different symptoms, and how an orthodontist can help people with TMJ disorders.
What is TMJ?
The TMJ is a joint that connects the jawbone to the skull. If it’s not working properly, it can cause a group of conditions called TMJ disorders or TMD. These disorders can be painful, cause discomfort, and affect jaw movement because they impact the joint and surrounding muscles, ligaments, and structures.
Sometimes, TMD can be linked to malocclusions or improper bites. When teeth don’t fit together correctly, it puts extra stress on the TMJ and can lead to discomfort or pain. Teeth grinding can also significantly contribute to TMD because it puts a lot of pressure on the joint, which worsens inflammation.
Make sure to visit a reliable dental clinic like Kumra Orthodontics. Kumra Orthodontics is a prominent orthodontist in Stafford, VA, that helps people with TMJ disorders to feel relief. They are staffed with a team of experienced orthodontists who understand how painful and disruptive TMJ can be and are dedicated to providing patients with the best quality care at an affordable price. Don’t let TMJ hold you back any longer – reach out to Kumra Orthodontics today to schedule a consultation.
What Are the Symptoms of TMJ?
Jaw pain or tenderness
TMJ disorders can cause pain or tenderness in the jaw joint, which may be felt in the surrounding muscles. Fortunately, there are various treatment options available to relieve this discomfort. These options can include orthodontic treatment, physical therapy, splint therapy, and medication.
Clicking or popping sounds
If you experience clicking or popping sounds when opening or closing your jaw, it could be a sign of a TMJ disorder. This sound is caused by the displacement of the disc within the joint and can be heard by others or felt by the person experiencing the symptom.
Limited range of motion
One of the symptoms of TMJ disorders is a limited range of motion in the jaw. This can manifest as stiffness or difficulty in opening or closing the jaw. It may be challenging to open the mouth fully or move the jaw in certain directions. Depending on the severity of the condition, this limitation can range from mild to severe and can impact daily activities such as eating and speaking.
Headaches
TMJ disorders can cause tension-like headaches that vary in intensity and location. These headaches can be felt in the temples, forehead, and back of the head, and may be accompanied by other symptoms. The cause of these headaches is not entirely known, but it is thought to involve the interaction of the jaw joint, muscles, and nerves in the head and neck. Possible causes include muscle tension and inflammation in the joint, among others.
Ear pain or ringing
TMJ disorders can affect the ears, causing pain, ringing, or a feeling of fullness. The jaw joint is located close to the ear canal, which is why these symptoms may occur. TMD-related ear pain can range from mild to severe and may be felt in or around the ear. The ringing or buzzing sensation, called tinnitus, may also vary in intensity and duration. The exact cause of TMD-related ear symptoms is not fully understood, but it is thought to be related to the complex interactions between the jaw joint, muscles, and nerves in the head and neck.
Tooth pain
Besides jaw, ear, and head pain, TMJ disorders can also cause tooth pain or sensitivity, especially in the back teeth. The pain can range from mild to severe and may be felt in one or more teeth. This is because the jaw joint is located near the back teeth, and when it is affected, it can put pressure on the teeth and cause discomfort. It is essential to have tooth pain evaluated by a dental professional to determine the underlying cause and appropriate treatment.
Neck and shoulder pain
TMJ disorders can cause pain and stiffness in the neck and shoulders due to the close proximity of the jaw joint to the muscles and nerves in the head, neck, and shoulders. When the jaw joint is not functioning correctly, it can lead to muscle tension and spasms in the surrounding areas, which can cause pain and discomfort. This pain and stiffness in the neck and shoulders can be a common symptom of TMJ disorders, particularly if the condition is causing muscle tension.
Why Do I Need an Orthodontist for TMJ Disorder?
If you’re experiencing jaw pain, stiffness, or other TMJ disorder symptoms, seeing an orthodontist is a good idea. These dental professionals specialize in bones related to your oral health and can evaluate your condition to recommend the most appropriate treatment.
Therefore, orthodontic treatment can help correct malocclusions and relieve stress on the TMJ, which can reduce pain and discomfort. This might involve braces or clear aligners and may be combined with other therapies as needed. If you’re experiencing TMJ symptoms, don’t hesitate to seek evaluation and treatment from an experienced dental professional like an orthodontist!
