Posted: September 29, 2024
Jaw pain can be a frustrating and confusing symptom to deal with. It can come and go, get worse when you chew, or even lead to headaches and earaches. If you’ve been suffering from persistent jaw discomfort, it’s possible that you’re dealing with a temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorder. TMJ problems are often linked to dental health, and many people aren’t aware that their dental issues could be the root cause of their pain.
Here are five key signs that your jaw pain might be dental-related and how addressing these issues can help you find relief.
1. Jaw Pain or Tenderness
One of the most common signs of TMJ disorder is pain or tenderness in the jaw area, especially when opening or closing your mouth. This pain can also spread to the face, neck, or even shoulders. If you notice discomfort while talking, chewing, or yawning, your TMJ might be under strain. Dental issues like misaligned teeth or an uneven bite often contribute to TMJ problems, as they put extra pressure on the joint.
2. Clicking or Popping Sounds
Do you hear clicking, popping, or grating noises when you move your jaw? These sounds can be a clear indicator that something is wrong with the TMJ. Misalignment of the teeth or jaw can cause the joint to move incorrectly, leading to these noises. While the sounds might not always be painful, they are often a sign that your TMJ isn’t functioning as it should, and dental intervention might be necessary.
3. Difficulty Chewing or Biting
If you’re having trouble chewing or biting, this could be linked to TMJ disorder. Misaligned teeth can cause your bite to close improperly, putting strain on the jaw joint and making everyday tasks like eating uncomfortable. You might also notice that your teeth don’t fit together the way they used to, or that you avoid certain foods because they’re difficult to chew without pain. A dentist can evaluate your bite and determine if an adjustment could help relieve the stress on your TMJ.
4. Frequent Headaches
Headaches are a common symptom of TMJ disorders, and many people don’t realize the connection. When your jaw joint is under strain, it can cause tension in the muscles around your head and neck, leading to frequent headaches or even migraines. If you’ve been dealing with unexplained headaches, particularly those that start in the temples or behind the eyes, it’s worth considering whether TMJ dysfunction could be the cause. Dental treatments that correct misalignment or bite issues can help alleviate this tension.
5. Locking or Stiffness in the Jaw
If your jaw feels stiff, or if you’ve experienced it “locking” in place temporarily, this is another sign of TMJ dysfunction. Lockjaw can be scary and uncomfortable, and it often occurs when there’s an imbalance in how the joint moves. Dental problems like teeth grinding or misalignment can cause this imbalance, making it difficult to fully open or close your mouth. A dentist or TMJ specialist can recommend treatments to help restore proper function to the joint.
What You Can Do About TMJ-Related Dental Problems
If you’ve been experiencing any of these symptoms, it’s important to get a dental evaluation to determine if your TMJ issues are related to your bite or teeth alignment. A dentist can offer a variety of treatment options to relieve your symptoms.
Schedule a Consultation
Don’t let jaw pain, headaches, or difficulty chewing disrupt your daily life. If you suspect your symptoms are related to TMJ disorder, now is the time for a dental consultation to uncover the root cause of your pain and offer effective treatments to restore your comfort. For more information or to schedule a consultation, contact our office via our contact form or by calling 403-407-5730.
*all procedures performed at our practice by a general dentist
