Do you have chronic jaw pain? It could be TMJ. TMJ stands for temporomandibular joint. Disorders of the joint are also abbreviated as TMJ or TMD.
So what is your temporomandibular joint? And what are the causes of the problems associated with this joint? Learn more, below.
What is TMJ?
Chronic Jaw Pain: Do I Have a TMJ Disorder?
Your TMJ
You actually have two matching joints on either side of your head, located right in front of your ears. These joints allow your jaw to open and close. According to the ADA, this is one of the most complex joints in your body. As such, if anything goes wrong with a component of the joint (which is made up of a number of muscles, ligaments, and bones), you may experience chronic jaw pain.
Causes of TMJ Disorders
Bite Problem
If you have an underbite or an overbite, you may be more likely to have chronic jaw pain. Even things like wear and tear on the teeth leading to uneven surfaces can cause an uneven bite, leading to jaw problems.
Anatomical Factors
Anatomical factors that interfere with the proper operation of the joint can cause pain. These can include things like scar tissue from a previous injury such as a dislocation. Arthritis and infections can also cause anatomical issues resulting in jaw pain.
Teeth Grinding/Clench
Do you grind your teeth? Are you in the habit of clenching your teeth when you’re under stress? Both of these can lead to jaw pain.
Bad Posture
Bad posture has negative consequences for a lot of parts of your body, including your jaw. Bad posture causes your jaw to go out of alignment and puts stress on the joint itself.
Trauma
Direct trauma to the jaw can provoke a problem with the joint.
Genetics
Some people are genetically predisposed to TMJ.
Symptoms of TMJ Disorders
- Pain in the jaw, especially in the morning and/or late afternoon.
- Swelling.
- A clicking/popping sound when you open your mouth.
- Difficulty chewing/pain when chewing.
- Difficulty/pain opening/closing your mouth.
- Misaligned upper and lower teeth.
- Sensitive teeth.
- Headaches.
- Stiffness in the jaw.
What should I do if I have chronic jaw pain?
If you have chronic jaw pain and think it may be a TMJ disorder, see your local dentist in Olney for a diagnosis.
Call Olney Dental at (301) 250-1057 or contact us online for an appointment. And don’t forget to visit Facebook, Twitter, Google+, Pinterest, and YouTube to connect with us on social media.