Signs & Symptoms of TMJ Disease

Temporomandibular joints are located on both sides of your jaw. They are composed of blood, bones, muscles and nerves. The joints control the movements of your jaw. Temporomandibular joint syndrome, or disorder, affects the way your jaw works. TMJ disorders are most common in women between the ages of 30 and 50.

Symptoms

• Symptoms for TMJ disorder include pain in the face and jaw that can sometimes reach down to the shoulders. Muscle spasms, swelling, popping and clicking of the jaw are also common. Sometimes patients experience difficulty swallowing due to the muscle spasms. Headaches and dizziness accompanied by nausea and vomiting are other signs of TMJ disorder. An uneven or uncomfortable bite may also be signs of the disorder.

Misconceptions

• TMJ disorders are often mistaken for ear problems. Some of the TMJ symptoms revolve around the ears. Sometimes patients experience extreme discomfort in their ears, fullness and hear ringing. Sometimes hearing loss occurs. If you are experiencing ear-related symptoms along with jaw pain, don't write it off as a little ear infection without consulting your doctor first.

Causes

• TMJ disorder is caused by trauma. The trauma can be internal or external. Teeth grinding and chewing are characterized as internal trauma. Constantly chewing nails, gum, pens or other objects can cause TMJ disorder. External trauma would be a forceful blow to the jaw. Rheumatoid arthritis, fibromyalgia and osteoarthritis are other possible causes.

Treatment

• For at home treatment you can take over-the-counter medications such as aspirin and ibuprofen. Eat soft foods and avoid opening your mouth wide. Avoid stress. Stress may be the cause of the grinding or constant chewing. Doctors will often prescribe rest. Sometimes a splint will be necessary to keep your jaw from clenching or grinding. Occasionally surgery is necessary on the temporomandibular joints in order to flush them out. Cortisone injections are also used to treat TMJ disorders. Sometimes stress management therapy helps to combat the internal jaw trauma.

Prevention

• Don't bite your nails or chew on other objects. Refrain from chewing gum often. If you grind your teeth or often notice yourself clenching your jaw, see your doctor to have a special splint made for your jaw.

Warning

• If you are experiencing severe pain in your face or jaws, you should seek treatment immediately. Another severe symptom of TMJ disorder is lockjaw. If your jaw locks in an open or closed position, go to the hospital at once.