Pain Or Discomfort In Your Jaw? 4 Signs That It Might Be TMJ Disorder
Posted on: 6 April 2015
If you're having trouble with your jaw, you should visit your dentist. The problem might be TMJ disorder. The temporomandibular joint is responsible for your jaw movement. Problems with that joint can cause severe pain. It can also cause a myriad of other complications, including problems with chewing. Here are some of the symptoms that are often associated with TMJ. If you have any of these symptoms, you should discuss them with your dentist.
Clicking or Popping Sounds in Your Jaw
If you've ever noticed a peculiar clicking or popping sound when you open your mouth, it might be a sign of TMJ disorder. This is particularly true if the popping sound is accompanied by pain.
Pain in Your Jaw or Neck
Problems with TMJ disorder can lead to unexplained pain in the jaw or neck. The reason is because there is increased pressure on the joint when you chew or move your mouth. The pain can travel down to your shoulders and into your upper back. If you're experiencing this type of pain and your doctor can find no cause, you should schedule a dental services appointment with your dentist.
Teeth Grinding During Sleep
Teeth grinding or jaw clenching while you're asleep are common signs of TMJ disorder. You might not be aware that you're doing either of them because you're asleep. If you're not sure whether this applies to you, try asking someone who has heard you sleep, such as a parent, spouse or roommate. You can also record yourself while you sleep to see if you grind your teeth.
If you wake up in the morning with a sore jaw on a regular basis, this is probably a sign that you are clenching your jaw while you sleep. The pressure that you place on your clenched jaw can cause pain and discomfort in the morning.
Difficulty Opening or Closing Your Mouth
Open your mouth as wide as you can and then close it. If you have difficulty opening or closing your mouth, you may be suffering from TMJ disorder – especially if opening your mouth wide causes pain or discomfort.
TMJ disorder can cause severe pain and discomfort throughout your body, especially in the jaw, neck and shoulders. If you've experienced any of the symptoms listed above, on a regular basis, you should discuss them with your dentist. There are treatments available that can help alleviate the discomfort you're experiencing.
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