Temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorder can start with a little jaw discomfort, but without treatment, it can lead to much bigger problems. Many people ignore early symptoms, hoping the pain will go away on its own. However, untreated TMJ disorders can cause long-term damage to your jaw, teeth, and even overall health! But how does an achy jaw lead to so much damage? Continue reading to learn more about TMJ disorder and why receiving treatment is so important.
Chronic Pain and Jaw Disfunction
One of the most common dangers of untreated TMJ disorder is chronic pain. What starts as occasional soreness can turn into a nagging discomfort in your jaw, face, ears, and even your neck and shoulders. The longer the condition goes untreated, the more likely it is to affect your ability to chew, speak, or even open your mouth!
Over time, the jaw joint may become more damaged, leading to clicking, popping, or locking—where you lose the full range of motion in your jaw. Looking for treatment early can prevent the damage from reaching this point, saving the mobility of your jaw joint.
Damaged Teeth and Jaw Misalignment
Another possible issue with TMJ disorder is unconscious teeth grinding and clenching (bruxism). This condition can wear down tooth enamel, cause chips or cracks, and even lead to increased tooth sensitivity.
It can also put excessive pressure on your jaw, which can cause it to shift slightly over time, leading to bite misalignment. If left uncorrected, these changes can cause difficulty chewing and put strain on other teeth, leading to even more damage!
An Increase in Headaches or Migraines
If you’ve noticed an increased frequency of headaches or migraines, it could be a sign of worsening TMJ issues. The constant tension in your jaw muscles can trigger pain that radiates to your temples, forehead, and sometimes down your neck.
Many people don’t realize that their recurring headaches are connected to their jaw issues, leading them to treat the symptoms instead of the cause! Just know that frequent pain isn’t normal, so you should see your dentist as soon as you notice an increase in the number of episodes.
Ear Pain and Hearing Issues
Because your TMJ is located near your ears, untreated TMJ disorder can also cause pain, pressure, and even tinnitus (ringing sounds) within them. This can make daily life frustrating as your hearing begins to dull or become muffled. The sooner you test for TMJ and get treatment, the sooner your hearing can go back to normal!
Unfortunately, TMJ disorder doesn’t go away on its own. If you’re experiencing any of the symptoms described above, receiving treatment early can prevent long-term damage and help you get back to life as usual.
About the Practice
At DentaCrafters PLLC, Dr. Nada Elsadig and Dr. Lan Duckett are highly experienced and compassionate dental experts who can care for your smile. Whether you have decay, trauma, or untreated TMJ issues, they have the technology and training to help you find relief. Call (703) 241-5775 to schedule a TMJ consultation with us or visit our website to see a full menu of services.