If you hear your jaw clicking or popping inside your head or if you need ice packs to ease the discomfort you feel where your jawbone connects to the skull, there’s most likely something wrong with your Temporomandibular Joint, or TMJ. There are other issues related to this problem that I’ll be bringing up for you to be aware of.
Restorative Dentistry in Boise, ID, explains that TMJ is a condition that affects eating, speaking, and sleeping. When your TMJ doesn’t function properly, it will have an impact on your overall health. Knowing the signs that you need to undergo treatment to restore the normal function of your jaw is critical
- Persistent Jaw Discomfort
Persistent pain in the jaw region is a common symptom of a problematic TMJ. This could be dull, stabbing, or radiating that spreads to the face, ears, and neck. If you frequently suffer such jaw discomforts, particularly when chewing or speaking, you should have yourself checked by a doctor or dentist. - Limited Jaw Movement
If you are unable to comfortably open your mouth wide or if your jaw locks or clicks while moving, it is time to seek expert help on what may be a TMJ issue. This restricted jaw movement will affect your ability to eat and speak. Immediate intervention is critical, or your condition might worsen. - Clicking Sound
Clicking, popping, or grating sounds coming from the joint of your jaw are common signs of TMJ dysfunction. Frequent or worsening sounds could indicate a structural problem with the joint. Go to a healthcare practitioner who can determine the cause and apply treatment for the problem. - Chronic Headaches and Facial Pain
A specialist in full mouth rehabilitation in Boise, ID, will possibly diagnose the cause of chronic headaches, migraines, or face pain as trouble with your TMJ. You should seek treatment for what might be a TMJ-related medical concern. - Ear-Related Symptoms
TMJ difficulties can produce symptoms that resemble ear problems, such as ringing in the ears, earaches, or a sensation of pressure in the ears. These symptoms could be caused by the temporomandibular joint’s proximity to the ears. Seeing a doctor or a dentist will help identify the reason and lead to an appropriate cure. - Grinding of Teeth
Bruxism, or tooth grinding, is a common problem linked to the TMJ. Many people grind their teeth when sleeping, and it puts additional strain on the jaw joint and surrounding muscles. If you wake up with jaw pain, headaches, or worn-down teeth, consult a dentist to see if bruxism is causing your trouble. - Changes in Alignment
TMJ issues can cause abnormalities in your bite alignment. This is known as malocclusion. If your teeth no longer fit together properly, there might be trouble with the position of your jaw joint. A quick examination by a healthcare professional can prevent the worsening of malocclusion.
A Jawsome Treatment Is What’s Needed
Knowing the signs that you need TMJ therapy is important for maintaining your dental and general health. Specialists of restorative dentistry in Boise, ID, hint that jaw pain, limited movement of your mandible, odd sounds from the joint of your jaws, or lingering headaches mean you should already visit your dentist or a doctor.
If you need a dentist, check us out at the Boise Dentistry Co. Call us at 208-939-7053 or email us at office@boisedentistryco.com.