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How To Spot A TMJ Problem: 5 Common Signs You Need To Know

The temporomandibular joint (TMJ) is a crucial component of the jaw, and problems with it can lead to discomfort and pain in various areas of the head, neck, and face. However, just experiencing pain isn’t enough to indicate a TMJ problem. How do you know if you have a TMJ issue? There are several key symptoms to look out for that may signal TMJ dysfunction, also known as TMD.

TMD refers to a group of conditions that affect the temporomandibular joint, often causing pain, inflammation, and dysfunction in the jaw. If you notice any of the following five signs, it may be time to consult with a healthcare provider to address your TMJ health.

Top 5 Signs You Have a TMJ Problem:

  1. Pain in the Face, Neck, or Shoulders

    • What to look for: An occasional click or pop in the jaw may not be a major issue, but if you’re experiencing persistent pain in the face, neck, or shoulders, it could indicate a TMJ problem. This pain often worsens with jaw movement or tension. If you notice pain that doesn’t subside, it’s important to seek evaluation from a healthcare provider.

  2. Limited Mouth Opening

    • What to look for: The normal range of mouth opening is typically three fingers stacked vertically between the upper and lower teeth. If you find yourself avoiding certain foods because of difficulty opening your mouth wide or feel that you have to move your jaw in a specific way to open it fully, you may be dealing with limited mouth opening—a common sign of TMJ dysfunction.

  3. Painful Clicking or Locking When Opening or Closing Your Mouth

    • What to look for: While it’s normal for the jaw to make slight noises during movement, painful clicking or locking during mouth opening or closing can be a sign of joint inflammation or muscle imbalance. This discomfort is often distressing and indicates that the joint is not functioning properly. In some cases, the jaw may “lock,” making it difficult to fully open or close the mouth.

  4. A Significant Change in How Your Upper and Lower Teeth Fit Together

    • What to look for: If you notice that your teeth no longer fit together the way they used to, or if certain teeth make contact before others when you close your mouth, this could be due to TMJ swelling or misalignment. This misalignment happens when the TMJ is swollen, which can cause issues with the way your teeth meet and function.

  5. Headaches, Earaches, Toothaches, Dizziness, Hearing Problems, or Difficulty Swallowing

    • What to look for: TMJ dysfunction can cause referred pain, meaning that the pain you feel might not always be in the immediate area of the issue. Headaches, earaches, toothaches, dizziness, hearing problems, and trouble swallowing can all be linked to TMJ problems. Many individuals are eventually diagnosed with TMD after exhaustive evaluations for ear or tooth pain that wasn’t due to any direct dental or ear issue.

Effective, Non-Surgical Treatment Options for TMJ Problems

For many people, the pain and discomfort from TMJ problems are temporary, but for others, symptoms can gradually worsen. Early detection and an accurate diagnosis are essential for effective rehabilitation. Fortunately, there are numerous non-surgical treatment options available that can help reduce pain and improve jaw function.

  1. Manual and Rehabilitative Therapy:

    • A healthcare provider, such as a chiropractor or physical therapist, can use manual therapy techniques to address muscle imbalances and improve joint function. These therapies can help relieve tension in the jaw, neck, and shoulders, restore proper movement, and improve overall comfort.

  2. Postural Adjustments:

    • Poor posture, especially forward head posture, can exacerbate TMJ problems. Working on improving posture, including using proper ergonomics while sitting and standing, can significantly alleviate pressure on the jaw.

  3. Stretching and Strengthening Exercises:

    • Specific jaw exercises can help strengthen the muscles around the TMJ, improving overall function and reducing strain on the joint. These exercises can also help with jaw mobility and decrease discomfort when chewing or talking.

  4. Lifestyle and Behavioral Modifications:

    • Avoiding habits like teeth grinding (often caused by stress or anxiety), chewing gum, or clenching your jaw can help reduce strain on the TMJ. Relaxation techniques like meditation or deep breathing exercises can also help alleviate stress and prevent jaw tension.

If you experience any of the symptoms listed above, it’s important to address them as soon as possible to prevent the problem from worsening. TMJ dysfunction can significantly impact your daily life, but with the right diagnosis and treatment, you can find relief. There are effective, non-surgical treatments that can restore proper function to your jaw and help you live pain-free.

If you think you may have a TMJ problem, talk to your healthcare provider or a chiropractor about your symptoms. They can guide you toward the best course of action for rehabilitation and recovery.

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Bradford J. Cole, DC, MS, CSCS
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Daniel H. Smith, DC
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(901) 377-2340

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