TMJ Disorder - What is it and How Your Dentist Can Help

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This important joint enables you to eat, speak and yawn, and in order to function properly, each intricate part of the joint must work together properly.


The severity of TMJ disorder will vary from person to person.
Women are diagnosed with TMJ problems more frequently than men.
Many patients complain of headaches, ear pain and limited ability to open the mouth.


Other Common Symptoms include:

* Dull, aching pain in the jaw joint
* Neck, shoulder and facial pain
* Locking of the jaw
* Pain or ringing in the ears
* Hearing loss
* Dizziness and vision problems
* Uncomfortable or uneven bite
* Swelling of the face and mouth on the affected side
* Unexplained morning headaches
* Limited jaw mobility, especially when chewing or yawning

Finding Relief for TMJ Symptoms

Treatment for a TMJ problem will depend on the cause.
With simple steps, your TMJ symptoms may go away on their own in a matter of days.
When pain persists or worsens, you will want to see your dentist or physician for professional care.
If this is the case, a dentist that specializes in TMJ disorders can help manage and control the pain.
The soft plastic protectors make it difficult to clench the jaws, a leading cause of TMJ pain.
When symptoms don't respond to other treatments, surgery to repair the damaged joint tissue may be necessary.
Left untreated, pain will persist and symptoms may get worse.