Temporomandibular joint (TMJ) syndrome is a disorder of the jaw joint and the muscles surrounding it. A physician or dentist can diagnose and treat TMJ syndrome, a condition that may cause chronic pain and interfere with normal activities such as eating and speaking. Below is more information about this condition, its causes, and symptoms.

Understanding TMJ Syndrome

How Does the Temporomandibular Joint Work?

There is one temporomandibular joint on each side of your jaw, connecting the lower jawbone to the skull in front of the ear. Working together with the surrounding muscles and ligaments, the joint moves like a gliding hinge, allowing your mouth to open and close for speaking, chewing, and swallowing. A soft disk of cartilage cushions the bones of the joint, so the joint can open, rotate, and slide smoothly.

What Causes TMJ Syndrome?

Many factors can contribute to this condition, including arthritis, infection, a misaligned jaw—such as an overbite, underbite, or crossbite—and trauma to the jaw. People who grind their teeth, bite hard objects such as ice cubes frequently, or clench their jaw due to stress are more likely to experience the disorder. When diagnosing TMJ syndrome, a dentist will take X-rays of your jaw and check the teeth for signs of abnormal wear and tear.

What Are the Symptoms of This Condition?

Typically, the first sign of a TMJ disorder is jaw pain, which may radiate through your face, scalp, neck, and shoulders. The pain can cause headaches, which may lead to nausea or vomiting. You may hear a clicking sound when moving your jaw, have difficulty opening or closing your mouth all the way, or have trouble swallowing due to muscle spasms. These symptoms may resolve on their own, but if they persist or are severe, seek help from a physician or dentist.

With offices in Barrow and Homer, AK, Preventive Dental Services PC has been providing high-quality dental care for over 20 years. Their friendly, caring team offers a wide range of dentistry services, including extractions, crowns, dentures, and treatment for TMJ syndrome. Call (907) 235-1286 to schedule a dentist appointment or visit their website to learn more about their services.