TMJ Dysfunction
Mandible tense or sore? Tinnitus without apparent reason?
Do you frequently grind or clench your teeth?
These are just some of the many signs of a Temporomandibular Joint Dysfunction (TMJ Dysfunction), also known as TMD.
The temporomandibular joint is located at the front of the ear (bilaterally) and is largely responsible for the opening and closing of your jaw.
When this joint shifts or becomes immobile in any way, it can lead to a painful and debilitating problem.
Do you experience any of the following signs of TMJ dysfunction?
- Headaches: These are usually linked to various causes or present as a recurring symptom, one of which is temporomandibular dysfunction. Headaches associated with TMD often radiate from the base of the skull and are referred to as tension headaches. In some cases, patients may also experience migraines for years before discovering that TMJ dysfunction was one of the primary contributors to the headaches.
- Frequent headaches should not be ignored, and it is important to ensure that there are no underlying neurological problems causing these headaches.
- Pain in the face and neck: Temporomandibular dysfunctions are sometimes responsible for pain that may be localized in the joint itself or radiate across the face or neck. Over time, this pain may become intense and disabling.
- Bruxism (teeth grinding/clenching): Millions of people grind their teeth without realizing it. Many patients suffering from TMD report facial muscle tension caused by constant pressure between the upper and lower teeth. In addition to teeth clenching when awake, a more common issue is teeth grinding that occurs during sleep. The most common symptom of nighttime bruxism is waking up with a headache almost every morning, along with a feeling of muscle tension in the facial muscles.
- Clicks or crepitation: It is not normal to hear joint sounds during mouth opening or closing. These sounds are often associated with degeneration of the temporomandibular joint and can be one of the signs of dysfunction in the joint.
- Tinnitus: For those suffering from TMD, tinnitus may not have an identifiable cause, but when combined with other symptoms, it may be associated with this region. It will, however, be necessary to consult an Ear, Nose, and Throat (ENT) specialist to rule out other causes.
- Limited mouth opening: In certain situations, during eating or yawning, the articular disc may slip and cause joint locking, leading to an inability to open or close the mouth fully.
