TMJ & Bruxism

The most common symptoms of TMJ issues include the following, and can range from mild to severe:

• Jaw pain and tenderness
• Popping, locking or clicking of the jaw
• Difficulty chewing
• Headache
• Pain in one or both temporomandibular joints
• Aching pain around or in the ear
• Facial, neck, or shoulder pain.

TMJ disorder can feel like a throbbing pain in your jaw, a dull ache in your jaw or a searing pain on the side of your face. Pain and symptoms differ from patient to patient. It is advised to seek a medical professional for new or worsening pain.

TMJ disorder is a symptom complex rather than a single condition and is often caused by multiple factors. TMJ can be caused by:

• • Malocclusion (improper bite)
  • Bruxism (grinding/clenching teeth)
  • Poor posture
  • Stress
  • Arthritis or other joint diseases
  • Trauma to the jaw or mouth
  • Habitual daytime clenching, chewing gum, or fingernail biting

Keep in mind that this is not an exclusive list. For more information about TMJ in Ottawa, please contact us.

The duration of TMJ disorder can vary depending on the severity of the condition and the effectiveness of treatment. In some cases, it may resolve on its own within a few weeks or months, while in other cases, it may persist for years if left untreated. TMJ issues are also influenced by other factors like stress, poor posture, and clenching or grinding teeth. These continuous habits or experiences can contribute to ongoing muscle tension and prolong your symptoms.

Often, TMJ disorder is temporary or episodic, and the pain can be relieved with self-managed care and simple non-surgical treatments. When conservative methods are not helping, other options are available. It is advised to consult a health care professional such as your physician or dentist if you have new or worsening pain or discomfort. Occasionally it may be a sign of a more serious condition.

Seek medical attention if you have new or persistent pain or tenderness in your jaw or if you can’t open or close your jaw completely. Your doctor or dentist can perform a thorough evaluation to determine the underlying cause of your symptoms and discuss possible treatment plans to alleviate your pain and improve your jaw movement and function.

TMJ issues are usually not a sign of a more serious condition. However, TMJ pain can be a symptom of a more severe disease or disorder. This discomfort may worsen with time if the underlying cause is left untreated. Some potential consequences of untreated TMJ disorder may include chronic pain and long-term eating and speaking difficulties. If you are experiencing pain and discomfort in your jaw and face, speak to a medical professional.

TMJ issues often cause jaw pain, and this discomfort is often mistaken for recurring tension headaches. This pain can occur on one or both sides of the head and can feel like a dull ache or sharp, stabbing pain. A TMJ headache may not respond to regular tension headache treatments, like over-the-counter pain medications. To effectively treat a TMJ headache, you may need to focus on treating the underlying cause.

In some cases, TMJ symptoms can go away without treatment. For some, making lifestyle changes, like practicing stress reduction or avoiding hard and chewy foods may help alleviate TMJ symptoms without treatment intervention. However, as mentioned previously, if your pain or discomfort is severe or persistent, it’s essential to seek medical attention from a qualified healthcare provider. Untreated TMJ disorder can lead to chronic pain, difficulty eating or speaking, and other complications.

Contact us for more information regarding treatment options at Concept Medical.

This information is intended for general educational purposes only. It is not intended for medical advice or a medical opinion. For more information about TMJ treatment in Ottawa, please contact us.