TMJ disorder symptoms vary wildly among patients. People between the ages of 20 and 40 often suffer from TMJ dysfunction and typically the disorder affects more women than men. Some patients may be completely unaware that they have TMJ dysfunction. Dr. Askari may detect potential TMJ dysfunction during dental a checkup if she finds signs of bruxism on molars. Other patients experience chronic and severe pain from TMJ disorder.
Symptoms of TMJ Disorder
- Facial pain – this includes discomfort near the jaw joints, in the muscles surrounding the mouth, and the area around the ears
- Discomfort when eating, chewing, talking, and/or opening the mouth
- Difficulty opening the mouth to its widest position
- Facial swelling – especially near the jawbone
- Clicking or popping noises when the mouth opens and closes; sometimes patients may experience popping and clicking of the jawbone without pain
- Neck, shoulder, and/or low back pain
- Toothaches
- Earaches or ringing in the ears
- Headaches (including migraines)
- Dizziness
- Difficulty hearing
- Bruxism – grinding, scraping, and gnashing of the teeth
- Noticeably worn molars
- Feelings of fatigue in facial muscles; this is because the muscles are “working against the grain” to correct misalignment
- Chronic snoring and/or obstructive sleep apnea
- Carpel tunnel syndrome
The symptoms associated with TMJ disorder reverberate throughout the body. Facial muscles, working to correct the problem, tire and send signals to the brain that create sensations of pain. The brain transmits these signals to other muscle groups in an effort for other muscles to help relieve the fatigued muscles around your jawbone and face. Eventually, TMJ dysfunction disrupts the natural flow of energy in the body, so the body concentrates its focus on correcting the misalignment of your jaw joints. When body is devoting energy to correcting the dysfunction in jaw alignment, patients often experience a change in posture. As a proponent of oral-systemic health, Dr. Askari firmly believes that TMJ dysfunction not only negatively affects the facial area, but also the entire body. This is why she takes a comprehensive approach when it comes to treating TMJ disorders.
If you believe you have TMJ disorder, contact Dr. Askari at (248) 566-6490 to schedule an appointment at Comfort Dental Spa. Dr. Askari is committed to providing comprehensive care to her patients. Our staff serves residents of Farmington Hills, Southfield, Northfield, Livonia, Dearborn, and the surrounding Detroit communities.
