Temporomandibular joint disorder (TMJ) is a condition that affects the joints in the mouth called the temporomandibular joints, as well as the muscles and tissues that surround them. The temporomandibular joints connect the skull to the bones of the head, allowing movement such as chewing, speaking, and jaw movement.
Temporomandibular joint disorder can present with a wide range of symptoms and severity. Common symptoms of temporomandibular joint disorder include:
- Temporomandibular joint pain: Can range from mild discomfort to severe pain in the temporomandibular joint area or surrounding muscles. Clicking or cracking sounds.
- Temporomandibular joint movement: You may hear a clicking or cracking sound. Or a scratching sound when moving the jaw joint.
- Limited jaw joint movement: The jaw joint may feel tight or limited in movement, making it difficult to open or close the mouth completely.
- Facial pain: The pain may radiate to the face, head, or around the ears.
- Headaches or migraines: TMJ and facial joint conditions may be associated with headaches, especially chronic headaches or migraines.
- Ear symptoms: Some people with TMJ and facial joint conditions may experience ear pain, ear ringing, or a feeling of being blocked.
- Tightness of the jaw joint muscles: The muscles involved in the movement of the jaw joint may feel tight or weak.
The underlying cause of TMJ disorder is often multifactorial and may include factors such as injury to the jaw joint. Bruxism, arthritis, lack of alignment of the jaw joints or teeth, stress, or muscle tension. It is important to determine the exact cause of TMJ that can vary from person to person.
If you suspect that you have TMJ disorder, it is important to consult a medical professional, such as a dentist or oral and maxillofacial specialist, who can assess your symptoms, perform tests, and provide appropriate treatment options. Treatment may involve self-care, pain management measures, dental adjustments, physical therapy, or, in severe cases, surgery.