The Most Seven Recognized Symptoms of TMJ

There no clear reason for TMJ but most dentist and TMJ Specialist say that the problem is usually related to the jaw alignment muscle or the temporomandibular joint.

The anatomy of the TMJ Joint is what they call a hinge joint arrangement connecting to the mandible, or lower jaw, and temporal bone of the skull. Further located in front of the ears on the sides of the head. They are flexible joints that let the jaw move up and down and also to the sides. Another common movement is talking, yawning, and chewing.

TMJ problem starts when we over use the muscles in the jaw especially when there is too much grinding or clenching of the teeth and the over use contributes to TMJ pain. Also, when we experience stress it is known to clench our teeth or tighten our facial and jaw muscles. There can be direct injury to the jaw, the temporomandibular joint or to the muscles of the head and the neck in addition dislocation of the disc that acts as a cushion between the ball and the socket can also contribute to TMJ pain.

Symptoms to look for when identifying TMJ:

• Sounds - The grinding, crunching, and popping in the ear known as crepitus are known symptoms of TMJ. If you experience teeth grinding and jaw clenching which can wear out the jaw cartilage this can lead to TMJ. Have a family member or your spouse to let you know if they hear these sounds while you are asleep and if they do then this is a good reason to seek a TMJ Specialist.

• Headache - This is one of the most common complaints from a TMJ patient. Reported to be at least 80% of the patients with TMJ. Opening and closing the mouth contributing to facial pain and sensitivity to cold is another prominent complaint of the TMJ patient.

• Vertigo or Dizziness - although can be associated with many ailments but mostly related to the TMJ patient because they have skip eating meals due to the pain related to their TMJ condition and they report themselves feeling lightheaded or imbalanced.

• Stuffy Ear - many patient report feeling fullness in the ears, feel muffled, clogged, or fullness in the ears which is more intense when taking off and landing traveling by airplane.

• Earache - If you are experiencing pain around the front or below the ear you may want to seek an examination because you may be a TMJ patient.

• Ringing Sounds - unexplained ringing or noise of the ears or tinnitus is one of the symptoms for TMJ.

• Painful eyes or Sensitivity - Many patients complain of blurred vision, sensitivity to light, watery eyes, pain above, below and behind the eyes are common complaints of TMJ.

Although many of these symptoms mentioned above can be associated to other ailments in your body. It would be wise to seek early examination and advise to eliminate complication if not treated early for TMJ.