​For most people, the first things that come to mind at the mention of a temporomandibular joint, or TMJ, disorder are the common symptoms: jaw pain, clicking and popping, and difficulty chewing.

As it turns out, TMJ symptoms are not restricted to just these few, and some of the lesser-known symptoms may actually seem unrelated. Because of this, TMJ disorders can go undiagnosed for many years.

If you’re experiencing any of the symptoms below, consider visiting us to determine if a TMJ disorder could be responsible for your symptoms.

Earaches

If you’re frequently experiencing ear pain that you can’t quite explain, it may well be due to temporomandibular joint disorder.

The muscles and joints that connect the jaw are located close to the ears on each side of the face. If you place your hands in front of your ears on your face and open and close your jaw, you can feel them. It’s common to mistake strains in these muscles as ear infections or earaches in some cases. If you’re experiencing this symptom, a TMJ evaluation could help get to the bottom of your ear pain.

Headaches

If you’re having frequent headaches accompanied by neck pain, you may be unknowingly living with TMJ disorder. Neurological abnormalities can cause headaches that feel like migraines.

When you begin to experience pain around your ear or frequent headaches at your temples or at the back of the head, you may want to consult a skilled dentist or medical professional such as Dr. Buck to rule out the possibility of this being one of many TMJ disorder symptoms.

Nerve Pain

If your temporomandibular joint is misaligned, your body will have to overcompensate, often straining other body muscles, joints and nerves in the process. You may then start to feel nerve pain most commonly in the back or neck.

Dizziness

Are you finding it difficult to maintain focus and balance during the day? Perhaps you feel dizzy sometimes. This may be caused by a TMJ disorder, inner ear problems, medications or injuries to the head.

If you’re concerned you may be living with the pain of a TMJ disorder, we can help. For more information on TMJ disorders or to schedule an evaluation, call us today at 425-329-6267.