TMJ Symptoms - 7 Self Help Questions to Identify TMJ!

Temporo-Mandibular Joint disorder or TMJ in short is a condition that arises from damage to the joint of the same name, which links the lower jaw with the rest of the skull. The damage can be the result of a high impact from an accident or injury, or the result of wear and tear from bruxism, clenching teeth and jaws or para-functional habits over a long time.

Either way, TMJ results in serious pain and difficulties during the functioning of the bones or the muscles related to the joint. There are a lot of painful conditions usually mistaken for TMJ. So do not jump to conclusions based on the presence of just a few TMJ symptoms. It is always better to get diagnosed properly.

Try to answer the following questions. Remember the ones you answered yes and write them down for future reference. When you go to consult a qualified expert, remember to carry it with you. It will help you to not miss out anything important while talking to him.

1. Do you have a dull pain in the face which doesn't seem to be concentrated in any particular part of the face?


2. Do you have pain in your teeth and jaw?


3. Do you have any difficulties in closing or opening the mouth? (for example - while chewing, talking or taking a bite)


4. Do you hear clicking or grating sounds when moving the jaw or turning the neck sideways?


5. When you wake up in the morning, do u have migraines, regular headaches or ear aches?


6. Do you feel pain or pressure in your jaws, inside your ears and in/behind the eyes?


7. If you answered yes to any of the above questions, have you been having regular neck pain or back pain after the symptoms started?

Now, if you answered yes to more than two questions, it is a good idea to get yourself tested for TMJ disorder. Each question contains a set of TMJ symptoms, but the presence of a few does not confirm TMJ. Often, pain which is related to sinus is mistaken for TMJ symptoms and vice versa. Proper testing procedures can help to avoid this.