The symptoms of temporomandibular joint disorder, or TMJ as it is commonly called, typically include jaw pain, popping or clicking of the jaw, headache and clenching. However, some patients notice few, if any, of the tell-tale signs. Patients who experience lesser-known symptoms often live with the condition for years without ever receiving a confirmed diagnosis. This also means those patients live without treatment. To prevent this from happening to you, it is important that you know what other symptoms to look for.

Lesser-known symptoms of TMJ

TMJ manifests differently for every patient. Those who do not experience the obvious signs but who sense that something is “off” should discuss the following symptoms with a qualified dentist.

Neck pain

A major function of the temporomandibular joint is to keep the head balanced on top of the spinal cord. Though the head weighs roughly eight pounds, joint misalignment can result in the uneven distribution of the weight, which may lead to unnecessary stress on the spine and neck. In fact, when the head does not have the full support of the temporomandibular joint, it can result in as much as an additional 30-pound pull on the neck muscles.

Unexplained earache

Earaches typically develop when a person is sick, recently went swimming or has an infection of some type. When an earache develops out of nowhere, though, it may be a sign of TMJ. The jaw muscles typically run from ear to ear, so problems with bite alignment or injury within the jaw may trigger ear pain. Many people mistake this for an ear infection, but the truth is that the pain does not come from the ear at all. Rather, it comes from directly beneath or in front of the ear.

Toothache

For many patients, TMJ is most problematic when the jaw is in use. When the jaw is not properly aligned, it can put unnecessary stress on certain teeth and the roots. The patient may interpret this pain as a symptom of decay, but it could indicate an underlying health condition such as TMJ.

Pinched nerve

When the TMJ is out of alignment, the neck muscles overwork themselves to compensate for the imbalance. This exertion can put strain on the back muscles as the spine works to maintain balance from the head down. Over time, the tension can lead to pinched nerves and numbness. When a patient experiences unexplained numbness or tingling in the extremities, it could be a sign of TMJ syndrome.

Sleep apnea

In rare cases, TMJ disorder can cause the tongue to fall too far back in the mouth during sleep. This may lead to obstructed airways. When the tongue obstructs the airways during sleep, it is called sleep apnea. If a patient complains of abnormal breathing or of feeling tired despite getting a full eight hours of rest each night, groggy or irritable, a dentist should investigate further the possibility of TMJ.

Conclusion

Some symptoms of TMJ are less obvious than others. Patients who experience any of the above symptoms, in addition to or in the absence of other more common signs, should discuss the possibility of TMJ with their dentists.

Request an appointment here: https://www.simplysmilesdentist.com or call Simply Smiles Dentistry at (520) 368-3351 for an appointment in our Tucson office.

Check out what others are saying about our services on Yelp: Read our Yelp reviews.

Related Posts

Pros And Cons Of Teeth Whitening

Various factors affect tooth color, including genetics, food and beverage choices, smoking, and medications. Stains can occur on the surface of the tooth or beneath the enamel. Surface stains are common, but stains can also occur due to changes within the tooth's material. Extrinsic stains are stains on the surface of the tooth, while intrinsic…

How To Care For Dental Implants

Dental implants enable you to get as close as you can get to replacing your natural teeth roots, both in terms of function and health benefits. Dental implants require regular care like your natural teeth, which is the only way to ensure that your implant-supported teeth can last a lifetime. Read on to learn about…

What To Expect At A Consultation For Braces

Curious about what happens when you undergo a consultation for braces with your general dentist? Read on to learn more. Many patients — especially teens and younger children — may be concerned about going to a consultation for braces. It is normal for children to be nervous and excited before each session, whether it is…

FAQs About Cosmetic Dental Services

Many patients have issues with the appearance of their smile. Whether looking to fix a chipped tooth, whiten your teeth, or completely transform your smile, cosmetic dental services offer a wide range of solutions. If you are considering cosmetic dentistry, you may have some questions about these services and how they can benefit your oral…

Simply Smiles Dentistry

Share
Published by
Simply Smiles Dentistry

Recent Posts

Pros and Cons of Teeth Whitening

Whitening patients' teeth involves a simple procedure that a dentist can perform in one visit…

3 weeks ago

How to Care for Dental Implants

Dental implants are an investment that require regular care and monitoring.

3 weeks ago

What To Expect at a Consultation for Braces

Curious about what happens when you undergo a consultation for braces with your general dentist?

3 weeks ago

FAQs About Cosmetic Dental Services

Many patients have issues with the appearance of their smile. Whether looking to fix a…

3 weeks ago

Teeth Whitening: A Common Cosmetic Dental Service

Professionals who perform cosmetic dental services know that a confident smile is a universal symbol…

3 weeks ago

3 Cosmetic Dental Services to Improve Your Smile

Cosmetic dental services combine art and science in transforming your smile. The processes available also…

4 weeks ago