TMJ disorder (TMD) is a common affliction that affects the TMJ, the joint that controls movement of the lower jaw. It often causes symptoms like jaw pain, difficulty chewing, and limited jaw mobility. But did you know that TMD can be associated with dozens of other symptoms? It can even affect your eyes! This blog post explores the connection between TMJ disorder and eye pain.
TMD and Your Nerves
Nerves are specialized clusters of cells throughout the body that are responsible for conveying information to the brain, including sensory information like pain. The eyes are connected to two different sets of nerves.
When the temporalis muscles, which control the lower jaw, experience increased tension due to TMJ disorder, that can compress the nerves connected to your eyes. Persistent eye pain may be the result.
TMD Can Cause Referred Pain
Another possible cause of TMD-related eye discomfort is known as referred pain. Basically, this means that pain is coming from one area of your body, but your brain gets confused and processes the pain as coming from somewhere else. This is surprisingly common, particularly when the original source of the pain is in an area where pain is not usually felt. Therefore, there is a chance that your eyes and the nerves connected to them are not directly being affected by TMD. Rather, the discomfort might just be due to a mix-up of sensory signals.
How Can You Find Relief?
It is important to remember that eye pain can have many different causes, including problems like glaucoma, pink eye, allergies, or a sinus infection. Therefore, you might need to visit your primary care practitioner or an eye health specialist to find relief.
However, if you have other symptoms of TMD, such as jaw discomfort, headaches, neck pain, and more, it would be worth your time to visit a dental practice that offers TMJ treatment. Very often, non-invasive therapies like an occlusal splint or the use of a TENS machine can greatly reduce or even eliminate TMD symptoms, including eye pain.
TMD is a serious condition that can even be debilitating at times! Fortunately, this disorder is highly treatable. Hopefully, you will soon be on your way to relief from eye pain and other TMD symptoms.
Meet the Practice
At DentaCrafters, Drs. Nada and Duckett, along with our skilled support staff, are committed to providing top-quality care for the Falls Church community. We offer multiple types of TMJ treatment, including TENs therapy, occlusal splints, and more. If you have been struggling with eye pain related to TMD or other symptoms, we can evaluate your case and recommend your next steps. Get in touch with our friendly team at 703-241-5775.