The Temporomandibular Joint (TMJ) is a critical joint in your jaw, making it crucial to treat discomfort caused by TMJ issues. TMJ issues affect the temporomandibular joint, which is important in eating, drinking, breathing, and speaking. Additionally, the muscles in your jaw support the posture of your neck and head. It could be difficult to determine if TMJ problem is the true source of pain, though. How can you determine if you have a TMJ disorder?

Top TMJ Symptoms to Watch Out For

1. Jaw and ear pain
   • Jaw pain will frequently be the most noticeable sign of TMJ. Additionally, you can feel ear pain, particularly in the area in front of the ear, which could radiate to the cheek and temple region.
2. Headaches
   • The pain could also be accompanied by recurrent headaches and migraines. The pain is described as a hammering, throbbing, and pounding sensation.
3. Vertigo
   • In this circumstance, the world appears to be spinning, or you have a sense of rotation.
     In certain cases, the sensation may persist for several hours or days and may overwhelm you, especially when you’re still. When you roll over or turn in bed, your vertigo symptoms frequently get worse.
4. Jaw sounds
   • These include the sounds your jaw makes as it opens, closes, or chews, such as popping, clicking, or grinding. It might or might not hurt.
5. Bite problems
   • Many people have problems chewing or have a painful bite, as if their lower and upper teeth are not positioned correctly in relation to one another.
6. Facial pain
   • 
   • This discomfort may appear behind the eye, in the area around the ear, or even inside the ear as earaches. This could also refer to a general sense of fatigue or facial aches.
7. Swelling on the face
   • Facial swelling, particularly on the sides of the face, is indicative of a TMJ issue.
8. Fatigue on the face
   • You will experience a strange, worn-out sensation on your face. Rarely, if ever, is your face also fatigued when your body is. The face will feel fatigued if you have TMJ, which can occasionally seem embarrassing because it’s an unusual sensation.
9. Tinnitus
   • Due to the close ties between the jaw and ears, ringing in your ears is frequently a symptom of TMJ pain.
10. Upper back discomfort
    • Your jaw muscles work to keep your neck and head in proper alignment; therefore, pain in your mouth can also affect your lower body. These regions consist of the neck, shoulders, and upper back.
11. Tingling or numbness in the fingertips
    • Jaw misalignment may even cause numbness or tingling in the fingers that extends all the way down your arm.
12. Teeth-related issues
    • 
    • Along with damaged, chipped, or broken teeth, TMJ pain can also result in uncomfortable or achy teeth.

When the pain becomes unbearable, it is advised to see a dentist and undergo the suggested treatment. The suggestion is particularly valid if your pain prevents you from performing your job well. TMJ can either get worse or get better depending on how much pain you’re experiencing.
If you are in Los Angeles and you suspect you are suffering from TMJ, please call us at Time to Smile right away to arrange your consultation with Dr. Solomon. Take the first step toward locating a treatment strategy that is appropriate for your symptoms and needs!