TMJ disorder (TMD) can have big consequences for your quality of life. If you suspect that you have it, it is certainly worth your time to seek treatment! But whom should you see for help? There are several types of practitioners that may offer effective therapies, but often, an oral surgeon is the best choice. Here are six signs that you should book an appointment:
You Have Stiff Jaw Muscles
Many people with TMD tend to grind their teeth at night, which can cause the jaw and facial muscles to feel stiff and sore. Aching teeth in the morning are another sign that you commonly engage in nighttime teeth grinding that is related to TMD.
Clicking and Popping in Your Jaw
A healthy jaw might click or pop if you open it too wide. Most of the time, though, it should operate smoothly and silently. Clicking and popping noises are a common sign of TMD and should be evaluated by a professional.
Jaw Mobility Problems
If your TMD is severe enough, it might make it difficult for you to open and close your mouth. At times, you could even experience an inability to move your jaw at all.
Pressure and Pain in Your Ears
The jaw joints are located very close to your ears, so TMD is often accompanied by ear symptoms, such as pain and pressure. Tinnitus (ringing in the ears) could also occur.
Tension Headaches
Headaches are one of the most common symptoms of TMJ disorder. They can occur as a problem in the jaw joint increases muscle tension throughout the face, head, neck, and shoulders.
Aches and Pains Throughout Your Body
TMD is known to be a descending disorder. In other words, it can cause pain in various parts of your body, such as the neck, shoulders, and back. This happens because misalignment or injury in one part of the body can force nearby muscles to work harder, which leads to a chain reaction that can lead to widespread discomfort.
Will You Need Surgery?
Visiting an oral surgeon for TMJ treatment does not necessarily mean that you will need an invasive procedure. After an evaluation, your doctor may recommend that you try some conservative options first, such as a special oral splint or minor adjustments to your bite. If those treatments prove to be ineffective, though, corrective jaw surgery might be the best course of action.
TMD is nothing to take lightly! If your body is telling you that something is wrong with your jaw joints, now is the time to seek care.
Meet the Practice
Our practice is proud to feature four highly skilled oral surgeons, all of whom understand the intricacies of how the jaw joints work. We offer numerous treatments for TMJ disorder, ranging from advice on home care to advanced surgical options. To learn more about how we may be able to serve you, get in touch with Piney Point Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery in Houston at 713-783-5560.