TMJ disorder is most commonly associated with three symptoms: popping, clicking, and jaw pain. However, you may not realize that TMD can exist without these symptoms! So, how can you know if you have TMD pain, and what does it feel like? Continue reading to find out!
Because your body is a system, when one element is out of balance, it can result in various unanticipated symptoms throughout the body. This is especially true when it comes to your temporomandibular joints. Even though these little joints are near your temples, where your lower jaw links to the rest of your skull, TMJ disorder can produce pain from your head to your fingertips.
Here are some of the most prevalent types of pain related to TMJ disorder:
- Jaw pain
- Head pain
- Teeth pain
- Back, neck, and shoulder pain
- Facial Pain
Jaw Pain
Jaw pain can be acute and quick, such as when you open your mouth wide to yawn, or it can be a continuous hurting sensation. It may be worse first thing in the morning, in which case you may grind your teeth or clench your jaw while sleeping. It's usual for both temporomandibular joints to hurt, but it's also possible for only one to suffer.
Headaches
TMD can produce a variety of headaches, from minor aches and pains to terrible migraines and tension headaches. Migraines may appear to begin at the temporomandibular joints in the temples; however, a headache caused by the TMD does not have to be near the temples.
Teeth Damage & Pain
TMJ disorder is often caused by teeth grinding and jaw clenching at night. Grinding your teeth wears away the enamel, causing unpleasant sensitivity. These practices cause can lead to chips and fractures. In some situations, a patient's tooth may have a crack that is difficult to detect without specialized technology, resulting in significant pain and infection.
Back, Neck, and Shoulder Pain
Neck, shoulder, and upper back discomfort are frequently caused by tightness in the jaw. These symptoms are persistent with TMJ disorder, and for some individuals, they may be more evident than the pain in their jaws, leading to misdiagnosis. Taking care of TMD could be just what they need to relieve their persistent pain.
Facial Pain
Face pain is frequent in people with TMJ disorder, especially around the temples, behind the eyes, ears, and the jaw and neck. These places can be delicate to the touch. Because the temporomandibular joints are near the ear canals, when they become inflamed and uncomfortable, they can produce discomfort in the ears.
Find TMD or TMJ Disorder Relief in Washington
Dr. Buck is a facial and epigenetic orthopedist based in the state of Washington. Dr. Buck, and his fellow ENT physicians and pulmonologists, by combining their expertise, help patients find relief from TMJD. With Dr. Buck and his team, relief from the severity and alleviating symptoms of TMJD are possible. For more information on Dr. Buck's practice and the treatment options he provides, please schedule an appointment by giving us a call today at 206-316-8286. Additionally, one may contact us by filling out our online form.
