Due to the effects of stress on our bodies, seemingly phantom jaw pain can arise during overwhelming periods of our lives. If the pain persists, it may be a signifier of something more serious than a few anxious nights.
Our lower jaw functions with the help of the temporomandibular joints, which hold the lower jaw (mandible) to the upper jaw (maxilla) and allow its movement. When those joints are overworked, malfunctioning, or have slipped discs, pain and limited jaw usage will become a regular part of your life. Continually troubled TMJ could lead to a TMJ disorder (TMD).
Symptoms of TMD
While these symptoms are commonly indicative of TMD, remember that only a professional can diagnose a TMJ problem. If you’re experiencing a combination of these, please get in touch with our office to schedule a consultation:
- Jaw pain
- Head pain
- Facial pain / pain around the ears
- Limited jaw movement
- Tiredness in the jaw
- Jaw making clicking sounds
- Facial swelling
- A bite that feels strange or uncomfortable
Because you have a TMJ on either side of your face, the symptoms may occur on one or both sides. Don’t let having pain on only one side of your jaw keep you from investigating the problem.
Treatment of TMJ Disorder
Depending on your case, there will be different courses of action to take. If your jaw problem is complex, we may recommend you to a specialist. If your discomfort is the product of a dental problem like teeth grinding or clenching, we will be able to find a solution.
TMJ disorders are often treated with oral appliances, or TMJ splints. These nocturnal mouth guards prevent your lower jaw from moving in ways that may be harmful to your condition. By restricting jaw movement when you are at rest, TMJ splints allow the TMJ to heal and your discomfort to cease.
Jaw pain and the frustration it inspires shouldn’t be a part of your life. Seek treatment and relief by contacting our office.
