What Happens When You Ignore Your TMJ?
June 14, 2018
In your jaw, there is a joint that functions like a sliding hinge, known as the temporomandibular joint. This also connects the skull and jawbone, and there is a joint on both sides of the jaw. When you have pain in this joint or the muscles that control the jaw, it is known as TMJ disorder.
Why You Should Take TMJ Seriously
TMJ can be caused by arthritis, genetics or a jaw injury. While it is difficult to pinpoint the actual cause of TMJ in most cases, treatment does more than alleviate the pain. It can also prevent other conditions and symptoms that are secondary to the problem.
The condition often feels just like jaw pain, but you may have other symptoms you don’t realize are related. These can include vertigo, dizziness, ringing in the ears, back and neck pain, numbness and tingling in the fingers and chronic headaches.
For most people, the condition remains a recurrent, annoying jaw pain with a few related symptoms. In some cases, it can develop rapidly into something more serious and change or damage the joint of the jaw. Early treatment prevents additional damage to your joints.
In rare cases, the pain you feel may be something more serious than TMJ. Some cardiovascular problems, heart attacks and even cancer can be associated with jaw pain and toothaches. If you ignore the problem, these conditions can’t be diagnosed or treated quickly.
Jaw pain is not a normal thing, and not something you have to live with. Treatment is available and, in many cases, it is easy and drug-free. You should not have to live in constant pain when you should be living life to the fullest.
Give Us a Call
If you have pain or clicking in the jaw that seems abnormal, schedule an appointment with our dentist today. Dr. Walden at Walden Dental Group is experienced in dealing with TMJ and knows the best treatments for each unique situation.