The Temporo-Mandibular Joint connects your jaw to the temporal bones of your skull. This is the joint that allows your jaw to move up and down so you can talk and chew. TMJ disorder occurs when there is a problem with the TMJ joint and the muscles that control it.
Symptoms of TMJ disorder
You may have TMJ disorder if:
- You have constant headaches or pain in the frontal area of your head.
- You experience pain behind your eyes, your eyes are bloodshot, or your eyes are sensitive to sunlight.
- Your mouth has limited movement, doesn’t open smoothly, locks open or shut, or deviates to one side when opening.
- You experience hissing or buzzing in your ears, decreased hearing, ear pain without infection, or itchy ears.
- Your jaw clicks or pops, makes grating sounds, have uncontrolled jaw movements and there is pain in the cheek muscles.
- Your neck has a lack of mobility, stiffness or is sore.
- You have sore shoulder muscles or a numbness in your fingers or back.
Many times TMJ disorders can be difficult to diagnose. If you think you may be suffering from TMJ disorder, call our office to make an appointment.