How is TMJ dysfunction diagnosed?
There is no single method or sure-fire way of diagnosing TMJ dysfunction. If you believe you may be suffering from this condition, a medical professional will analyze your medical history and perform a physical exam. Your physician may also send you to an otolaryngologist or a dentist specializing in jaw pain and disorders in Oakville. The idea is to rule out other medical problems before diagnosing the patient with TMJ dysfunction, as the symptoms may also be due to a condition known as trigeminal neuralgia, salivary gland disease, or even swollen lymph nodes. Once your diagnosis has been determined, you will be treated based on the nature of your symptoms, focusing on effective TMJ treatment in Oakville.Why does TMJ dysfunction happen?
- Genetics, Age, and Gender: Factors such as genetics, gender (with women more commonly affected), and age play roles in the likelihood of developing TMJ disorders.
- Physical and Psychological Stress: These stresses can exacerbate or even contribute to the development of temporomandibular joint disorder.
Symptoms of TMJ Disorders:
- Pain or tenderness in your jaw, often extending to facial pain.
- Difficulty chewing or pain while chewing, and aching around the ear.
- Locking of the joint, making it difficult to open or close your mouth.
- Jaw popping
- Headaches
- Pain in the temple
- Earaches
Understanding TMJ Noises and Pain with BeActive Physiotherapy Oakville
Clicking Sounds in TMJ
It’s not uncommon for individuals with TMJ disorder (TMD) to hear clicking, popping, or grating sounds when opening or closing their mouth. This noise often results from the disk inside the joint shifting. Sometimes, this sound is audible to others nearby. While jaw clicking is common and occurs in one third of the population, it usually isn’t a cause for concern unless it’s accompanied by pain or functional limitations, such as the jaw becoming stuck in an open or closed position. These symptoms could indicate a more serious instance of TMD.Cycle of TMD Muscle Pain
Muscle pain related to TMD is typically felt in the cheeks (masseter muscles) and the temples (temporalis muscles), the primary areas for jaw-closing muscles. Waking up with soreness and stiffness can often be attributed to nighttime teeth clenching or grinding.Understanding Joint Pain in TMJ
Joint pain from TMJ disorders is often akin to arthritis, characterized by inflammation within the joint. Diagnostic imaging like radiographs (X-rays) can reveal changes in the TMJ resembling arthritis, though symptoms can vary greatly; some patients show signs of arthritis on an X-ray but experience no pain, while others suffer significant pain and dysfunction without noticeable radiographic evidence. While there is no definitive cure for arthritis, certain medications can alleviate symptoms in some cases.Relieving TMJ Pain
At BeActive Physiotherapy Oakville, we explore a range of treatments tailored to your specific symptoms and needs. We provide physiotherapy strategies to address and alleviate the underlying causes of your TMJ dysfunction. Our dedicated team is committed to helping you achieve long-term relief and improved jaw function. If you are experiencing symptoms of TMJ disorder, don’t hesitate to contact us at BeActive Physiotherapy Oakville to schedule an assessment and begin your journey to relief. Despite these specifics, sometimes the exact cause of TMJ pain remains unclear. Often, it’s linked to excessive strain on the jaw joints due to habits or conditions that overwork the jaw muscles, such as:- Bruxism: Habitual, involuntary clenching or grinding of the teeth.
- Trauma: Injury to the jaw, head, or neck.
