If you have been experiencing pain in your jaw or headaches for no explainable reason, you may be suffering from TMJ, which is a dysfunction of the temporomandibular joint of the jaw. It is important to get TMJ treatment from a Williamsburg, VA, dentist like Dr. Ricky Rubin, Dr. Brett Dunnill, or Dr. Omar Hasham at Williamsburg Family Dentistry.
What is TMJ?
The temporomandibular joints are the joints that are located on either side of the head and connect the jaw to the skull, allowing you to open and close your mouth. Therefore, these joints allow you to chew your food and speak well. Due to the fact that these joints have the ability to move in so many different directions, these joints are rather complex. When there is an issue with these joints, it is referred to as TMJ disorder.
What Are the Symptoms of TMJ?
Because TMJ disorders can result in a limited range of motion of the jaw, discomfort, and pain, it is important to spot problems early, get a diagnosis, and get the necessary treatment from your Williamsburg, VA, dentist. Some symptoms to watch for include the following:
- Pain in the Jaw – When your teeth are out of alignment, the muscles of the jaw will attempt to compensate. As a result, you will experience pain in the jaw and surrounding area, especially while chewing, speaking, or yawning.
- Clicking/Popping of the Jaw – A common symptom of TMJ is a clicking or popping noise coming from the jaw area. You may also notice some ringing/popping in your ears.
- Constant Headaches – TMJ disorders often result in constant headaches or migraines due to the strain that is being placed on the jaw and facial muscles.
- Facial Pain/Swelling – The pain that you experience will not be limited to the jaw area, as you may also experience pain in the rest of the face as well. This is particularly true for pain that comes from below the ear and gets worse when the jaw is opened. Swelling of the face, especially around the jaw area, may also occur.
- Blurred Vision – Due to the fact that TMJ disorders can result in headaches and migraines, blurred vision can sometimes be experienced by individuals.
If you have been experiencing any of the symptoms mentioned above, experiencing anything out of the ordinary with no identifiable cause, and/or believe you may have TMJ, reach out to a Williamsburg, VA, dentist at Williamsburg Family Dentistry by calling (757) 345-5500. You will be scheduled for an exam with Dr. Rubin, Dr. Dunnill, or Dr. Hasham, all of whom are experienced in dealing with TMJ issues and can help alleviate your symptoms.