When Should You Consult a Doctor for TMJ? Signs You Shouldn’t Ignore

You might occasionally notice a little discomfort in your jaw, but how do you know when it’s more than a passing ache?

Temporomandibular Joint (TMJ) disorders can present symptoms that shouldn’t be ignored.

Understanding when to see a doctor for TMJ can save you from long-term discomfort and more serious complications.

This blog post will help you identify the signs that it’s time to consult a healthcare professional, ensuring you receive the care you need to keep your smile healthy and pain-free.

What is TMJ?

TMJ is a condition that affects the temporomandibular joint, which connects your jawbone to your skull. 

This joint is responsible for all the movements of your lower jaw, such as chewing, talking, and yawning. 

When this joint becomes inflamed or damaged, it can lead to TMJ disorder.

What Causes TMJ?

There are many potential causes of TMJ disorder, and often, it can be a combination of factors. 

Some common causes include:

• Jaw injury: Any trauma to the jaw, such as a car accident or sports injury, can lead to TMJ disorder.
• Teeth grinding or clenching: This common habit puts excessive pressure on the jaw joint, leading to inflammation and pain. Stress and anxiety are often contributing factors to teeth grinding or clenching.
• Malocclusion: This refers to an improper alignment of the teeth, which can strain the jaw joint and lead to TMJ disorder.

What are the Symptoms of TMJ?

TMJ can lead to various symptoms that affect your daily life. 

These include:

• Jaw Pain: You may experience this as a dull ache or a sharp, shooting pain in your jaw joint. Some people also experience clicking or popping sounds when they open and close their mouth.
• Headaches and Migraines: TMJ can also cause headaches and migraines, particularly in the temples or behind the eyes.
• Ear Pain and Ringing in the Ears: The temporomandibular joint is located close to the ear, and when it is inflamed, it can cause pain and discomfort in the ear. Some people also experience a ringing or buzzing sound in their ears, known as tinnitus.
• Difficulty Chewing and Swallowing: If your jaw joint is not functioning correctly, it can make simple tasks like chewing and swallowing difficult and uncomfortable.

How to Know When to See a Doctor for TMJ

There are steps you can take at home to ease your pain. These include:

• Applying a warm compress to the affected area
• Avoiding hard or chewy foods
• Practicing relaxation techniques to reduce tension in the jaw muscles

However, if your symptoms persist or worsen after a few days, you must consult a doctor for proper diagnosis and treatment.

You should also seek medical attention if you experience any of the following:

• Severe pain or discomfort in the jaw joint
• Difficulty opening or closing your mouth
• Lockjaw, where you are unable to move your jaw at all
• Swelling or inflammation in the jaw area
• Difficulty eating or speaking
• Headaches or migraines that are not relieved by over-the-counter pain medication

Professional Help for TMJ Available at Art of Modern Dentistry

Looking for relief from TMJ pain? 

At Art of Modern Dentistry, we’re here to help you find comfort. 

Our cosmetic dentistry services include treatments such as Botox injections, night guards, and bite adjustments to ease symptoms. 

Plus, we’ll work with you to create a personalized stress management plan to support your overall well-being. 

Schedule your consultation today and start feeling better.