The temporomandibular joint acts like a hinge that connects
your jawbone and skull. TMJ syndrome is a disorder that causes many to
experience sharp or aching pain, or a loss of control in the movement of the
jaw. However, it can be difficult to diagnose the exact cause of someone’s jaw
disorder. In some, TMJ can be caused by arthritis, or by a habitual clenching
or grinding of the teeth, though some people clench and grind without ever
developing a tmj disorder.
People with tmj disorder may experience any of the
following:
- Pain, aching, and tenderness in the jaw, ear, and face.
- Discomfort or difficulty while chewing, talking, or moving the jaw.
- Locking of the jaw joint that makes the opening and closing of the jaw difficult or uncomfortable.
- Popping in the jaw and ear.
- A grinding sensation in the jaw joint.
These last two symptoms, if not associated with pain, may
occur exclusively from a temporomandibular syndrome. If you experience a
clicking or popping sensation when opening or closing the jaw, but your
movement is not painful or impeded in any way, you likely do not have TMJ
disorder.
Causes
As mentioned previously, the jaw joint is basically a hinge
that can also slide laterally to some degree. Cartilage connects the mandible
and the skull, and a small disk sits between the two bones and acts as a
cushion. Usually, this small disk is what allows the smooth movement of the
jaw, but if the disk is damaged either by an impact injury, arthritis, or
erosion or inflammation due to clenching the jaw (usually because of stress).
It is important to seek the attention of a doctor if you do
not have any tenderness, pain, or difficulty in the operation of the jaw joint.
Your doctor, dentist, or a jaw and ear specialist can help you treat your
disorder. To speak to one of the best tmj syndrome specialists in the Central
Texas area, go to DrMcReynolds.com now!
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