Sore Jaw or TMJ

All of us use our jaws for a lot of things: Speaking, eating, laughing, yawning, and chewing to name a few. Actually, the average person uses their jaw so many times daily, that they take it for granted - right up until something goes awry. Since the jaw controls the opening and closing of the mouth, it's understandable that any disease or disorder that has an effect on a person’s ability to use their jaw needs prompt attention and immediate treatment. If you are suffering from a sore jaw, you may be concerned, and may even be wondering if a more serious cause than mere muscle fatigue is to blame.

Frequently, jaw soreness is related to TMJ disorder. This is an ailment that affects the Temporomandibular joint (TMJ), which connects the jaw bones to the base of the skull. While chronic jaw pain is a definite warning sign suggesting a TMJ problem, there are several other symptoms which are likely to accompany the disorder. When you unsure as to whether you have TMJ disorder or simply a sore jaw, examine the following list of common TMJ disorder signs and symptoms. In the event that you have several of these symptoms in addition to your jaw pain, you may be a candidate for treatment from an experienced TMJ professional.

• Ear pain, ringing in the ears (tinnitus), sudden unexplainable pressure in the ears, and/or loss of hearing.
• Clicking or popping sounds in your jaw whenever you open or close your mouth. This is by far the most typical symptoms of TMJ disorder, because it indicates that the Temporomandibular joint is actually popping or sliding into and out of its socket.
• Inflammation or swelling in the jaw area, particularly if it is localized on one side of the face.
• Restricted range of motion of the mouth or jaw when using jaw for otherwise normal use.
• Lockjaw. If the jaw becomes “locked” in either the open or closed position, it is a distinct TMJ red flag. WARNING: Lockjaw is extremely serious. If you’re experiencing lockjaw, seek immediate medical attention in a TMJ dentist office, doctor's office or a hospital emergency room.
• Headache, dizziness or nausea that accompanies the jaw pain.
• Eye pain, blurred vision, or excessively watery eyes.
• Tooth pain, particularly if localized on one side of the jaw.
• A bite that is out of alignment or deviates to one side.
• Difficulty swallowing as a result of muscle spasms.
• Pain while eating hard, sticky, crunchy and/or chewy foods.

Don't be tempted to write off your sore jaw as a simple irritation. If you recognize yourself in these signs and symptoms, it really is time to call a reliable TMJ dentist who can diagnose and treat your TMJ disorder. Dr. Eddie Siman has years of success in treating TMJ through safe, effective non-surgical means, Dr. Siman can guide you toward a treatment plan that will work best for you. Stop letting your sore jaw compromise your daily lifestyle and comfort.  Call today to make an appointment with Dr. Eddie Siman.