TMJ dysfunction is an issue that just about all dental patients face in some capacity. While not everyone has a severe case of TMJ disorder that presents clear and uncomfortable symptoms, there are some signs to look out for that may indicate you could benefit from TMJ therapy. If you suspect you have TMD, ask yourself the following questions:
Are your jaw joints sore when you wake up in the morning?
If so, this could be a sign that you’ve been clenching your jaw at night, which is one of the classic symptoms of TMJ problems. This subconscious grinding puts quite a bit of pressure on teeth and can leave your jaw feeling tight and uncomfortable in the morning. This discomfort can make it hard to do bite, chew, and even swallow.
Has your dentist commented that your teeth are looking worn-down?
Persistent jaw clenching often goes hand-in-hand with teeth grinding as a part of common TMD symptoms. After a while, the surfaces of your teeth begin to wear-down from all of the pressure and movement created during teeth grinding. If your dentist has noted that your teeth are beginning to look significantly flatter, it may be time to consider dental restorations and TMJ treatment.
Do you find that you have frequent pain in your neck or facial muscles?
Unfortunately, your teeth and jaw aren’t the only parts of your body that suffer if you have TMJ problems. When muscles in your jaw are tight from an off-balance bite or involuntary clenching, it’s not uncommon to experience discomfort in other areas like your neck or even to have frequent headaches as a result.
Getting a Temporomandibular Joint Disorder Diagnosis
While all of the above symptoms can signify the presence of TMD, the best way to confirm that the discomfort you’re experiencing is indeed from TMJ issues is to contact your dentist. We offer TMD therapies that can help relieve the discomfort associated with this condition. We can also restore damaged teeth with treatment like natural-looking dental crowns. If you have any questions, please contact our Glen Ellyn dental office for your consultation.