The TMJ is a hinge connecting your lower jaw to your skull. However, this hinge can weaken when you clench or grind your teeth at night. Our dentists will be able to determine if a TMJ disorder is causing jaw pain. Continue reading below to learn more!
Symptoms of TMJ disorder include:
- Jaw pain
- Jaw locking while mouth is open or closed
- TMJ pain
- Facial pain
- Ache in or around ears
- Difficulty while chewing
- Pain while chewing
If you recognize any of the above TMJ symptoms, schedule an appointment with one of our dentists as soon as possible. During your appointment, we’ll ask you about your symptoms and physically examine your jaw. For example, we’ll ask you to open and close your jaw so we can listen for clicking sounds.
TMJ treatment (like a night guard) can noticeably alleviate jaw and tooth pain so you can get a better night’s sleep. If a custom night guard doesn’t work, we may recommend pain relievers, muscle relaxants, physical therapy, or even dental surgery. However, TMJ surgery is recommended only as a last resort.
To schedule your appointment with one of our Westland TMJ dentists, call Parkside Dental Team at (734) 261-6060.
Frequently Asked Questions
No. Popping or clicking noises while chewing or yawning are often associated with pain and are common signs of TMJ disorder (TMD). If you have a “noisy jaw,” please contact us for a TMJ examination and treatment plan.
Yes. Since the temporomandibular joint is so close to the ears, inflammation and pain from TMJ can often spread to the ears. In some cases, individuals with TMJ also suffer from hearing loss, tinnitus (ringing in the ears), or pain they may mistake for an ear infection. The best way to address ear pain caused by TMJ is to seek treatment with a qualified TMJ dentist or specialist.
It’s certainly possible that symptoms associated with TMJ disorder may be causing your headaches. Many individuals with TMJ suffer from chronic headaches including migraines. It’s not uncommon to confuse TMJ pain with sinus headaches. To determine the true cause of your headaches, it’s best to consult with a TMJ specialist.
We understand that it can be tempting to save time and money by purchasing an over-the-counter night guard to alleviate problems caused by tooth grinding and TMJ. However, if you suffer from TMJ, using an over-the-counter night guard can actually do more harm than good.
It’s simply not possible to fully customize the fit of an OTC night guard, and this can cause:
- Shifted teeth
- Increased jaw pain
- Jaw misalignment
- Discomfort
- Gum damage
- Increased clenching and grinding