Chances are that you have temporomandibular joint disorder (TMJ) if you awaken in the morning with a tense, painful jaw. You may not be aware of this, but TMJ pain doesn’t always just hurt your jaw. TMJ pain can occur in other places for some people, which can result in a missed diagnosis. The following is what you should know about different TMJ locations:

Where are you experiencing TMJ pain?

TMJ jaw pain is the most typical type of temporomandibular joint disorder pain. TMJ pain in the joint, tenderness in the jaw, swelling and warmth in the face, and a locked jaw are common jaw-related symptoms that TMJ patients may experience. It’s easy to see how these symptoms would make going about your daily business difficult, but TMJ pain can also occur in other places.

• Migraine and headache due to TMJ

The temporalis muscle, which encircles the temporomandibular joint in the jaw, is where TMJ and headaches first become associated. Beginning at the temporal bone, the temporalis muscle travels in a circle beneath the cheekbone before joining the mandible. When this muscle is overworked, it can produce pain resembling a tension headache.

The trigeminal nerve plays a role in TMJ headaches as well. Originating just over the mandible in front of the ear, the trigeminal nerve numbs the jaw and face. The trigeminal nerve can release chemicals that result in swelling in the sinus cavity and brain, which causes migraines when the typical movements that would induce TMJ, such as clenching, trauma, or grinding, occur.

• TMJ neck pain

The tension and stress in the jaw muscles and joints that cause headaches can also cause TMJ neck pain since every part of our bodies is interconnected.

As the sufferer attempts to manage their jaw pain, they may experience pain on the back and sides of their neck. This overcompensation may eventually result in complications from tense and stressed muscles.

• TMJ and ear pain

TMJ ear pain is also a very common TMJ symptom that is frequently not linked to other jaw pain symptoms until after the diagnosis is complete. Aside from being a sign of TMJ, ear pain can also be a sign of an infection or sinus issue.

TMJ-related ear pain can also coexist with tinnitus, a symptom that’s more bothersome than painful. As the temporomandibular joint gets more inflamed, the auditory nerve may be stimulated, leading to ringing in the ears.

• TMJ and shoulder pain

Lastly, there is a direct link between the neck and TMJ shoulder pain.

When the neck hurts, the shoulders start to take on some of the tension and may also be impacted.

Conclusion

TMJ issues could resolve on their own. If your symptoms persist, make an appointment to see your doctor.

For an appointment with Dr. Sid Solomon to discuss your symptoms and determine the best course of action, call Time To Smile at (310) 475-5598 right away. The American Dental Association has approved all of our TMJ surgeries and treatments. Computer mandibular scanning (CMS), surface electromyography (SEMG), and sonography through a K7 device are used in neuromuscular dentistry and gnathological neuromuscular dentistry to determine the patient’s optimal bite.