Top Symptoms of TMJ and TMD You Shouldn’t Ignore

Temporomandibular Joint (TMJ) disorders, commonly referred to as TMD, can significantly impact your quality of life. These conditions affect the hinge connecting your jawbone to your skull, which plays a crucial role in speaking, chewing, and even breathing. While occasional jaw discomfort might not be cause for concern, persistent or worsening symptoms should not be ignored.

What is TMJ?

TMJ stands for temporomandibular joint, which is the hinge-like joint that connects your jawbone to your skull on each side of your head. It allows you to perform essential movements such as speaking, chewing, and yawning. When the joint or surrounding muscles become inflamed, irritated, or misaligned, it can lead to a range of symptoms collectively known as temporomandibular disorders, or TMD. While TMJ refers to the joint itself, TMD describes the various conditions that can affect its function and cause pain, stiffness, or limited jaw movement.

Common Symptoms of TMJ and TMD

If you are experiencing any of the following, it may be time to speak with our dental specialist:

•        Jaw Pain or Tenderness: Discomfort in the jaw, particularly near the joint or around the ears, is one of the most recognizable signs of TMD.

•        Clicking or Popping Sounds: Noises when opening or closing your mouth may signal joint misalignment. While not always painful, these sounds are a warning sign of abnormal function.

•        Difficulty Opening or Closing Your Mouth: A sensation of your jaw locking or feeling stuck when eating or yawning can indicate a serious joint issue.

•        Frequent Headaches or Migraines: TMJ disorders can contribute to chronic tension headaches or migraines due to muscle strain and nerve irritation.

•        Ear Pain or Fullness: Because of the joint's proximity to the ear canal, many patients with TMD experience symptoms that mimic ear infections or inner ear pressure.

•        Facial Pain or Swelling: Ongoing pain in the cheeks or side of the face can be associated with inflammation in the temporomandibular joint.

•        Worn or Damaged Teeth: Clenching or grinding caused by jaw misalignment can lead to uneven wear, tooth sensitivity, or even cracks in your teeth.

Advanced Treatment Options

At Concierge Smile Boutique, we offer sophisticated solutions designed to restore both comfort and function. For patients who do not respond to conservative therapy such as bite guards or muscle relaxation techniques, more advanced options may be necessary.

Improper bite alignment often contributes to TMJ symptoms. We evaluate your occlusion using digital imaging and advanced diagnostics to determine whether an occlusal adjustment can relieve pressure on the joint. This may involve reshaping specific teeth or using restorative dentistry to realign your bite and reduce muscle strain.

In severe cases where noninvasive measures are not effective, bite realignment surgery may be considered. This corrective jaw surgery, known as orthognathic surgery, repositions the jaws to improve alignment, relieve pressure on the TMJ, and restore natural jaw movement.

Don’t Ignore the Signs

Ignoring TMJ or TMD symptoms can lead to long-term discomfort and further complications. Early intervention can help prevent worsening pain, protect your teeth, and restore balance to your oral health.

If you’re experiencing TMJ or TMD symptoms, schedule a consultation with Concierge Smile Boutique for advanced treatment options to address the root cause of your condition. Visit our office in Culver City, California, call (424) 404-6400, or text (424) 361-6272 to book an appointment today.