6 Unexpected TMJ Symptoms

TMJ SymptomsTMJ disorder is a condition that causes pain in the jaw muscles and joints. Jaw pain is one of the main symptoms of TMJ disorder.

However, there are many symptoms of TMJ disorder that are less common:

Tinnitus

Tinnitus is a condition that causes ringing in the ears. It can be caused by TMJ disorder. The pinto’s ligament connects the jaw joint with the bones in the middle ear. That is why if a person suffers from TMJ disorder, then they can develop tinnitus.

Radiating Pain

Pain from the jaw can easily radiate to other parts of the body. The pain may radiate to the shoulders. People may feel as though they are carrying a weight on their shoulders. The pain can also radiate to the neck. People may have a hard time moving their neck.

Additionally, the pain can radiate to the lower back. This pain can make it difficult to move. It is also common for people to experience numbness in their arms, limbs and fingers.

Vertigo

It is possible for a person with TMJ disorder to experience vertigo, which is dizziness. The inner ear is what controls balance. Vertigo can result if the inner ear balance is off. The inner ear is also a part of the vestibular system, which includes the nerves, eyes and joints.

If a part of the vestibular system is off balance, then mixed signals can be sent to the brain. This can also cause vertigo.

The vestibular system has something called the labyrinth. The labyrinth is a complex structure in the inner ear that has organs that control balance and hearing.

The labyrinth is located near the temporal bone, which attaches the jaw joint to the skull. That is why it is common for people with TMJ disorder to experience vertigo.

Jaw Swelling

People with TMJ disorder may experience jaw swelling. The swelling is typically located on the side of the face where that is affected by TMJ disorder. However, this symptom is relatively uncommon in people who have TMJ disorder.

Frequent Ear Pains

One of the reasons that TMJ disorder often goes undiagnosed is because it is often mistaken for ear problems.

Not only can a person experience ear pain, but their ears may also feel clogged. That is why many people think that they have an ear infection instead of TMJ disorder.

Frequent Headaches

It is common for people with TMJ disorder to experience tension headaches and migraines. It is easy to attribute these symptoms to something else such as stress.

Many people with TMJ disorder wake up with a headache. This is often caused by the clinching and grinding that many people do while they are sleeping.

Contact AZ TMJ For An Appointment Today

Frequent headaches, ear pains, vertigo, tinnitus, jaw swelling and radiating pain are some of the unpleasant symptoms that one may experience if they suffer from TMJ disorder.

Fortunately, you can have this condition treated by a TMJ dentist. If you are in need of a TMJ dentist, then you can contact Dr. Farrell today at 480-945-3629 to schedule your appointment to find out how your TMJ symptoms can be treated and alleviated.