Do you experience frequent jaw pain, clicking sounds when talking or yawning, or frequent headaches? You might be experiencing signs of TMJ disorder. Thankfully, our general dentistry team in Las Vegas, NV, can help identify and manage TMJ disorder.
Whether you’re experiencing jaw pain, dental pain, or other issues, it’s best to talk to a professional sooner rather than later. So, call Drs. Ann Pham and Halan Tran at (702) 456-0056 to schedule an appointment at Miracle Dental in Las Vegas, NV, today!
TMJ stands for ‘temporomandibular joint,’ the spot where the jawbone attaches to the skull. When this joint is not working properly, it can cause a variety of problems. While some issues are mild, others can seriously impact your daily life. Let’s dive into 10 signs of TMJ disorder you should never ignore.
1. Jaw Pain or Tenderness
One of the most common signs of TMJ is jaw tenderness. This pain can happen on one or both sides of your jaw. It may feel worse when you chew, talk, or open your mouth wide.
2. Clicking, Popping, or Grinding Sounds
These sounds are classic signs of TMJ. While not always painful, these clicks and pops can be annoying and may mean your jaw joint is out of alignment.
3. Difficulty Opening or Closing Your Mouth
If your jaw feels stuck or locks in place, it could be a sign of TMJ. This can make everyday tasks like eating or speaking more challenging.
4. Headaches or Migraines
Frequent headaches could actually be signs of TMJ. Tension in jaw muscles can trigger headaches, especially around your temples or behind your eyes.
5. Ear Pain or Fullness
TMJ issues can cause discomfort near your ears. Many people describe it as a dull ache or pressure, similar to an ear infection. If your ears feel full but there’s no infection, TMJ might be the culprit.
6. Facial Pain
TMJ-related pain isn’t limited to your jaw. You might feel aching around your cheeks, chin, or even neck. If your face feels sore for no clear reason, it could be one of the signs of TMJ.
7. Teeth Grinding (Bruxism)
Do you grind your teeth or clench your jaw at night or even during the day? This common habit can strain the jaw joint, leading to TMJ problems.
8. Sensitive or Worn-Down Teeth
If bruxism is responsible for your TMJ problems, then you may experience dental sensitivity. This is caused by worn-down enamel, leading to discomfort when eating or drinking hot, cold, sour, or sweet items.
9. Neck or Shoulder Pain
Tension from TMJ disorder can extend to other parts of the body. Indeed, many people with TMJ issues also experience stiffness or pain in the neck and shoulders.
10. Changes in Your Bite
Does your bite feel “off” or uneven? This can be one of the clearest signs of TMJ. Misalignment in your jaw joint can shift how your upper and lower teeth meet.
When to See Your Dentist in Las Vegas
If you notice any signs of TMJ, don’t wait to seek help. You may be one of the millions of Americans living with temporomandibular joint disorder. Luckily, Miracle Dental has simple treatments that can provide relief and prevent TMJ issues from worsening.
Don’t Ignore the Signs of TMJ – Contact Miracle Dental in Las Vegas, NV, Now!
TMJ disorder can disrupt your life, but help is available at Miracle Dental. If you have concerns, reach out to Drs. Ann Pham and Halan Tran here, or call our patient care coordinator at (702) 456-0056 for expert care and guidance now.
