November is the awareness month for temporomandibular joint disorder, or TMJ, which involves a malfunction of the joint that hinges the jaw to the skull. The problem can occur as a result of trauma, degeneration, dental issues, and even from stress-related grinding, leading to issues with the joint itself and the connecting muscles. Here are five common TMJ symptoms that you should know.
You may experience a locking of the jaw, meaning it becomes stuck in a certain position. This can happen in both open and clothed mouth situations. It can also be difficult to open the mouth as wide as you once could.
When you chew it may feel as though your teeth have shifted positions or are not aligned properly, resulting in discomfort. This can also cause difficulty with eating.
Do you hear noises when you chew or speak? Popping and clicking may not cause pain but is often a symptom of TMJ.
Tinnitus, or ringing in the ears, can occur, producing whistling, ringing, buzzing, and other similar types of noises on a regular basis or at intervals. It can vary from a light noise to a louder, disrupting sound.
Pain is not limited to simply the face and jaw area; you may feel it in the neck, upper shoulders, and jaw, as well as in your ears. This is usually felt when the mouth is opened or when chewing. The pain does not have to be excruciating; tenderness in these regions is often a red flag. This may be accompanied by swelling on one or both sides of your face, especially in the jaw region.
You do not have to continue suffering from TMJ. If you are searching for a general dentist in Buford, GA, to assist you with the issue, we can help. Contact Dr. Randolph Moore a call at (770) 648-2882.