If you’ve ever dealt with a sore jaw, frequent headaches, or a clicking sound every time you chew, you may have wondered what’s actually going on—and who you’re supposed to see for treatment. The truth is, these TMJ issues don’t always fit neatly into one category, but in many cases, your dentist is going to be one of the best people to help you get to the bottom of the issue and find lasting relief. Here’s what you need to know.
A Closer Look at TMJ
Your temporomandibular joints (TMJ) are the two hinge-like joints that connect your jaw to the rest of your skull, and they’re responsible for pretty much every movement your mouth makes, including chewing, speaking, yawning, and even laughing and smiling.
When these joints become strained, injured, or misaligned, it can lead to what’s known as TMD, or temporomandibular joint disorder. Some common symptoms of TMD include jaw pain, clicking or popping, difficulty opening your mouth fully, and even chronic headaches or neck and shoulder pain. These symptoms can be quite debilitating and lower your overall quality of life without treatment.
Is TMD Considered a Dental or Medical Problem?
It may seem like since TMD symptoms are mostly located within or around the mouth, it’s solely a dental problem. And it’s true that a misaligned bite, worn-down or missing teeth, or bruxism can all place excess pressure on the jaw joints, leading to painful symptoms felt in and around the area.
But because these joints are also part of a larger, interconnected system involving the muscles, nerves, and bones of the head and neck, its issues can also seem more medical in nature, including migraines and neck or shoulder pain. This overlap is why TMJ is often described as both a dental and medical concern.
All of that said, because so many cases of TMJ trace back to bite alignment and dental function, your dentist is normally going to be the best first stop for a diagnosis and follow-up treatment. Between treatment options like custom-made occlusal splints, as well as occlusal adjustments, it’s quite straightforward to address TMJ issues and achieve a harmonious bite. If further intervention is needed for medical reasons, they can then coordinate your care with other professionals.
The bottom line is, TMJ disorders can be truly puzzling, with roots that are dental, medical, or both at once. That said, if you’re dealing with discomfort that affects your daily life, don’t wait to speak with your dentist to find a solution that brings you relief.
About the Practice
Under the leadership of Drs. Ryan and Rose Johnson, our team here at Jacksonville Dental Excellence has served the needs of patients in Jacksonville and the nearby area for several years. We offer a wide range of services, including TMJ therapy in the form of equilibration and custom-made occlusal splints. If you have any questions about the blog or you’re ready to schedule an appointment for yourself or a loved one, you can reach out online or call today for more information. Telephone: (904) 895-4536.