It is not possible for a person to diagnose his own health condition. A correct diagnosis requires a professional evaluation. However, when you are familiar with some of the common signs of TMJ (or TMD, for Temporomandibular Joint Disorder), you will know it is time to consult your dentist or other oral health care professional.
There are many different signs associated with temporomandibular joint disorder. Unfortunately, they can be mistaken for other health conditions, or dismissed entirely. If you have TMJ, oral and maxillofacial surgeons can help you.
Some signs of TMJ can occur in the mouth. You may have difficulty chewing, eating, or talking. You may experience tenderness or pain, or your jaw may become locked or stiff. The simple act of opening and closing your mouth may be painful, uncomfortable, or difficult. You may not be able to yawn without feeling a considerable amount of pain.
You may feel your teeth are not meeting as they should, even if this is not the case. You may hear grating, clicking, or popping sounds coming from your jaw, especially when you are opening and closing your mouth. The side of the face that is affected by TMJ may become swollen, or develop a feeling of tiredness, without an apparent reason.
Not all TMJ symptoms occur in a person’s mouth. When you have temporomandibular joint disorder, you can also develop pain in your face, head, shoulder, or neck. You may feel a sense of pressure or pain behind your eyes. TMJ can cause some individuals to develop migraines.
TMJ can affect your hearing. You may be bothered by a sense of ringing in your ears, known as tinnitus. You might experience hearing loss if you have TMJ.
Dizziness can be another symptom of TMJ. This can be quite alarming, especially if you have not experienced it in the past.
The best approach to TMJ symptoms is to have any new health problem evaluated by a professional. If you are experiencing any of these symptoms and have not had them before, make an appointment for an examination. Do not simply continue suffering, or hope the symptom will go away.
TMJ symptoms can be extremely painful or relatively minor. While most individuals who develop TMJ are between twenty and forty years old, no one should dismiss these symptoms or try to diagnose himself.
Oral and maxillofacial surgeons can treat your TMJ. You do not have to continue suffering when effective treatment is available. Equally important, you do not have to put your long-term health at risk by attempting to diagnose your own health condition.
Any signs of TMJ should be brought to the attention of your dentist. Oral and maxillofacial surgeons in Houston, TX, can offer treatment to relieve your pain and end your symptoms. TMJ symptoms do not have to interfere with your life. The help you need is available.
There are many different symptoms associated with TMJ. Not all of the symptoms may apply to you. The important point to keep in mind is TMJ affects more than the jaw. If you have symptoms, request an evaluation.
Contact the Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons of Houston, or OMSH, to schedule an appointment for an evaluation.
