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Temporo-Mandibular Joint Pain (TMJ)
Temporo-Mandibular joint discomfort or what some people refer to as just “TMJ” is a problem for many. The joint is actually the area that connects the lower jaw (mandible) to the upper part of the skull. Even though it is actually a small disc of cartilage, the TMJ separates the 2 areas so you can talk, swallow, chew, kiss, and etc. Pain and discomfort can occur when the cartilage is damaged.
Symptoms of TMJ Pain
Sore jaw muscles
Locking of the jaw
Ear pain
Temple or cheek pain
Frequent head and/or neck pain
Jaw popping or clicking
Difficulty in opening the mouth fully
Ringing in the ears (tinnitus)
The pain may be sharp and can possibly occur every time you swallow, yawn, talk, or chew. It can also be a dull, constant discomfort. Usually the pain occurs over the joint in from of the ear but pain can radiate elsewhere. It may cause spasms in facial muscles nearby and it may cause pain in the temple, cheek, lower jaw, and teeth. Since a common symptom is ear pain, many people see an ENT (ear, nose, and throat) specialist. When the “ear pain” is not associated with a hearing loss and the eardrum looks normal, the ENT specialist will consider the possibility that the pain comes from the temper-mandibular joint.
Causes of TMJ Pain
The TMJ pain is usually related to movement or displacement of the cartilage disc which may cause pressure and possible stretch the sensory nerves. You may hear popping or clicking noises as the disk slips back into place when the jaw moves. Chewing muscles may also not function efficiently causing pain and tenderness. Other ways of damaging the TMJ:
Major and minor trauma to the jaw
Teeth grinding
Excessive gum chewing
Stress and other psychological factors
Improper bit
Arthritis