September 22, 2016

If you have problems with your jaw, you may be dealing with a condition called TMJ that should be treated by a dentist in McAllen TX. Problems arise when there is pain or discomfort in the muscles that control jaw movement or the jaw joint itself. There is a temporomandibular joint on each side of the face, and problems can be caused by any number of things. If you are concerned that you are dealing with TMJ, watch for the following symptoms.

What to Watch for

Those who deal with TMJ or problems with the temporomandibular joint often report the following symptoms:

  • Aching facial pain
  • Difficulty or pain while chewing
  • Pain in either temporomandibular joint
  • Tenderness or pain in the jaw
  • Joint locking, making it difficult to move the mouth
  • Grating sensation while chewing
  • Clicking sound when the mouth opens or closes

If you have a grating sensation or a clicking sound but no pain, you may have a TMJ disorder that doesn’t require treatment. The problems arise when the pain causes reduced quality of life for the individual.

If you can’t open or close your mouth all the way, or you have tenderness and pain regularly in your jaw, you should see a dentist for treatment. There are several different treatment options for TMJ, and Dr. Alvarado can assess your situation and determine which is right for you.

Causes of TMJ

There is no direct answer to what causes TMJ. The cartilage in the joint may be damaged by arthritis, the disc may move out of proper alignment or erode over time, or the joint may be damaged by some type of injury or impact. Regardless of the cause of your disorder, there is no need to suffer when help is just a quick phone call away.

Schedule an Appointment

Schedule an appointment with Dr. Alvarado today at 956-688-9003 to discuss your TMJ and treatment options to improve your life.

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