The temporomandibular joints, often called the TMJs, connect your jawbone to your skull and allow you to talk, chew, yawn, and express emotion. When these joints or the surrounding muscles are not working properly, it can lead to a condition commonly known as TMJ disorder, or TMD. Many people experience symptoms without realizing they are related to the jaw, which is why awareness is so important.
Jaw Pain and Tenderness
One of the most common signs of TMJ disorder is pain in the jaw or a feeling of tenderness around the joint area. This discomfort may show up on one side or both sides of the face and can feel dull, achy, or sharp depending on the cause. Some people notice the pain most when chewing, speaking for long periods, or waking up in the morning. Jaw soreness that doesn’t seem to have a clear explanation is worth paying attention to.
Clicking, Popping, or Grinding Sounds
If you hear clicking, popping, or grinding noises when opening or closing your mouth, your TMJ may not be moving smoothly. These sounds can happen with or without pain. While an occasional click can be normal, frequent noises paired with discomfort or limited movement can signal a joint problem. These sounds often occur when the cartilage disc inside the joint is not in its proper position.
Difficulty Opening or Closing Your Mouth
TMJ disorder can make it hard to fully open or close your mouth. Some people describe a feeling that their jaw gets stuck or locked, even if only briefly. This can be unsettling and may interfere with eating or speaking. Limited jaw movement is a sign that the joint or muscles are under stress or inflamed.
Facial, Neck, and Shoulder Pain
The jaw is closely connected to the muscles of the face, neck, and shoulders. Because of this, TMJ disorder can cause pain that spreads beyond the jaw itself. You may notice aching in your cheeks, temples, neck, or shoulders, especially after long periods of stress or jaw use. This type of pain is often mistaken for muscle strain or posture issues.
Headaches and Ear-Related Symptoms
Frequent headaches, especially around the temples, can be linked to TMJ disorder. The jaw muscles can become tense and overworked, leading to tension-style headaches. TMJ problems can also cause ear-related symptoms such as earaches, ringing in the ears, or a feeling of fullness, even when there is no ear infection present.
Pain While Chewing or Talking
If chewing food or talking for extended periods causes discomfort, your jaw joints or muscles may be struggling to handle normal movement. TMJ disorder can make everyday activities feel tiring or painful, and some people begin to avoid certain foods because chewing feels uncomfortable. This change in habits can be a subtle but important sign.
Changes in Your Bite
TMJ disorder can affect how your upper and lower teeth fit together. You may feel like your bite has changed or that your teeth no longer align the way they used to. This can happen when the jaw shifts slightly due to muscle tension or joint issues. Bite changes should never be ignored, as they can lead to further discomfort over time.
Treatment for TMJ Disorder in Plano, TX
At Aesthetic Dentistry Centre, we are dedicated to helping you maintain healthy bite. TMJ disorder can cause pain, discomfort, and worsening dental conditions. We offer treatment options that could help restore your oral health and quality of life. Contact our office today to schedule a consultation and learn more about how you could experience symptom relief.