Diagnosing TMJ Syndrome

TMJ is short for temporomandibular joint, which is the joint that attaches your lower jaw to your head. TMJ Syndrome happens when that joint and the muscles around it become swollen and painful. It can be an annoyance when eating or talking, but typically is not a serious condition. Anyone can develop TMJ Syndrome, but people between the ages of 20 and 40 seem to suffer more often, as do women. 

 

While research is still being done about TMJ Syndrome, a variety of things are thought to cause it, such as injuries to the head or jaw, arthritis, clenching your jaw when you are stressed, and whiplash. Diagnosis can be difficult because most people have some form of the symptoms, so it takes a medical professional to make a proper diagnosis.

The biggest factor indicating TMJ Syndrome is pain or swelling in or around your jaw or face. Symptoms also include difficulty chewing and a jaw that gets “stuck” or makes a clicking or popping noise when you open or close your mouth. It can also cause head, shoulder, or neck aches, arthritis, ringing in your ears, ear aches, or difficulty hearing.

Often, the swelling and painful symptoms will go away with time or simple self-care techniques. By simply avoiding hard foods and gum and practicing muscle relaxation techniques, the swelling and pain can subside.

If the pain stays and your quality of life is being affected, seek medical assistance from a health care professional who has a strong understanding of how the muscles, bones, and joints work together. Note that it’s recommended that you first explore treatment plans that are non-invasive or can be reversed, exhausting them before moving on to permanent or surgical options.

To find out more about TMJ syndrome, click here!