Are you suffering from unexplained pain in your ear, neck, and jaw area for a longer period of time? Do you hear clicking or popping sounds while opening and closing your mouth? If so, then you should not waste your time anymore! Many people consume over-the-counter medicine to reduce pain quickly, but that’s a temporary solution. 

Experiencing these symptoms means that you are suffering from TMD and need to consult with a doctor for a TMJ diagnosis. If this problem is left untreated, then this leads to a major problem and lowers your overall quality of life.

In this blog, we will discuss the TMD treatment options and signs that you should not take lightly and seek medical guidance as soon as possible. 

Experiencing Pain in the Face 

When the jaw doesn't function properly, the muscles in the face exert effort to accommodate. As a result, you may experience discomfort from your jaws to the cheekbones beneath your eyes and forehead. 

Severe Jaw Pain and Stiffness 

The pain doesn’t remain between the jaw and neck forever. If you don’t consult with a health care provider, you may experience pain extending to other parts of your body. If the temporomandibular joint doesn’t function properly, you may experience pain in the shoulders, jaw, temples, and neck. 

Your jaw will become extremely stiff, and you will experience pain while moving your mouth or chewing food. If this happens, contact a dentist for a TMJ diagnosis quickly to improve your condition. 

Migraines and Headaches 

According to research, around 40% of people suffer from migraines and headaches due to IMD. If you are suffering from migraines or headaches almost every day, it’s time to consult with a doctor for a TMJ diagnosis. 

A Popping and Clicking Sound in the Jaw

Generally, when we talk, eat, or chew our jaws, we don’t hear any strange sounds. It only occurs if something is wrong with your mouth and it does not work properly. Having such a sound means that the TMJ joint is not in the right shape and requires more effort to accommodate. Whenever you notice this symptom, go for a TMJ diagnosis and get professional guidance about TMJ TMD treatment. 

Apart from that, you may experience other signs, including 

  • Changes in bite
  • Earaches, ringing 
  • Teeth
  • Difficulty chewing, tenderness in the jaw area
  • Joint locking, and pain while chewing. 

How Does a Healthcare Expert Diagnose TMJ Disorder? 

The overall procedure for TMJ diagnosis is long and difficult. To identify the problem accurately, doctors may analyze your previous medical history, do a physical exam, and use imaging tests like X-rays. The healthcare professional may ask about your symptoms and when they started. They will ask about any other medical conditions you have that could cause jaw pain. They will also ask about your family medical history because TMJ can be hereditary.

During the physical exam, your doctor will examine your mouth, teeth, and jaw for signs of TMJ. If required, your doctor may order X-rays or other imaging tests to look closely at the structures in your jaw. The tests can also help rule out other possible causes of jaw pain, like arthritis or a fracture. 

Self-care isn’t SELFISH! 

Recognizing the signs of TMJ is crucial for seeking timely diagnosis and treatment. This way, you can alleviate your symptoms, prevent further complications, and restore proper jaw function. 

If you experience persistent jaw pain, restricted jaw movement, clicking or popping sounds, or frequent headaches or earaches, book an appointment with a healthcare professional for a TMJ diagnosis. You can also get in touch with us at ICCMO (International College of Craniomandibular Orthopedics) to get the most effective TMD treatment options customized to your specific needs.