Is TMJ Serious?
If your jaw has been clicking, locking, or causing you pain, you may be dealing with TMJ. Short for temporomandibular joint disorder, TMJ refers to problems that affect the joint connecting your lower jaw to the base of your skull. This joint allows you to speak, eat, yawn, and make facial expressions. This means when it’s not working properly, you notice. While many cases are mild and temporary, there are situations where TMJ can become more than just an annoyance. Read on to learn more about when TMJ is a serious concern and what you might do about it.
Common Causes of TMJ
TMJ can be triggered by several things. For some people, it’s caused by clenching or grinding their teeth, especially during sleep. Others develop it due to injury, arthritis, or poor jaw alignment. Stress and posture can also play a role, especially if they lead to repeated tension in the neck and jaw. In many cases, these issues can be managed with small changes in habits or lifestyle. But when symptoms don’t go away or they get worse it may signal something more significant.
When TMJ Becomes a Bigger Problem
Most TMJ cases improve with simple home care. But there are times when it doesn’t resolve so easily. Here are some signs that TMJ could be more serious than it seems:
- Ongoing Pain: If you’ve been dealing with jaw discomfort for weeks or months without relief, that’s a sign the issue may be chronic. Pain that spreads to your head, neck, or shoulders also deserves closer attention.
- Limited Movement: TMJ can cause stiffness or locking of the jaw, making it difficult to open your mouth fully. In more serious cases, you might feel like your jaw is getting stuck or shifting out of place.
- Eating and Speaking Issues: Difficulty chewing, biting into food, or speaking clearly can interfere with daily life. If these problems are happening regularly, it’s time to speak with a professional.
- Sleep and Mood Disruptions: Chronic pain from TMJ often leads to poor sleep and increased stress. Over time, this can affect your mood, concentration, and overall well-being.
- Joint Damage: If left untreated, the joint itself can become worn down. In some cases, cartilage in the joint starts to deteriorate, leading to inflammation, arthritis, or even permanent damage.
What Should You Do Next?
If you’re wondering whether your TMJ symptoms are serious, the best approach is to have them evaluated. Your dentist can examine your bite, ask about your symptoms, and determine whether you’re dealing with a mild, moderate, or more advanced case. Depending on what they find, they may recommend a night guard, physical therapy, or other treatments that help reduce pressure on the joint and support healing.
Most TMJ problems are manageable, especially when caught early. But ignoring them can lead to complications that take longer to fix. Paying attention to how your jaw feels and acting on those symptoms is the best way to keep the joint healthy and functioning.