What Areas of the Face Are Affected by TMJ Pain?

The temporomandibular joint (TMJ) is a critical part of the face, as it connects the jaw to the skull. When there is any dysfunction with the TMJ, it is called TMD, or temporomandibular joint disorder. The pain can be intense, causing significant discomfort when you open or close your mouth, and pain can spread from one part of the face to another, impacting the eyes, ears, and mouth. Problems with the TMJ can also cause inflammation in muscles and tendons in the facial area from excess stress and pressure.

Dr. Mohamad El-Kheir, Dr. Matthew Gemp, and the rest of the team at Evolution Dentistry in Houston, TX offer TMJ therapy for treating TMD to help resolve pain and improve the functionality of the jawbone.

What causes TMJ pain?

TMJ pain can be caused when the joint has been damaged for any reason. Sometimes, the joint may experience fatigue from jaw clenching or teeth grinding, or it could be positioned improperly due to poorly aligned teeth.

The jaw could also slip back and forth from the skull, as a bump on the front part of the socket could stop working. The articular eminence that keeps the TMJ in place could weaken and make it harder for the jaw to stay in one spot.

The pain from these problems can move toward the tendons and muscles in the face, eventually leading to nerve damage and arthritis.

Symptoms of TMD are unique to each individual, but they may include:

• Popping or clicking sounds when the jaw is moved

• Limited functionality of the jaw

• Headaches or earaches without an ear infection

• Ringing in the ears

• Pain in the teeth, jaw, head, neck, face, or throat

• Congestion in the ears

Where can pain be the most intense?

In many situations, the pain can become worse around the ear, as the parts of the TMJ that keep the jaw connected to the skull are in close proximity. The pain can also be sharp around the jaw area as you open and close your mouth. If you notice any unusual sounds in the jaw due to the joint being dislocated or if you are having to adjust how you open and close it to keep the pain from being so intense, you may be a good candidate for TMJ therapy.

How is TMJ pain treated?

At Evolution Dentistry in Houston, TX, we can help resolve your TMJ pain with the help of TMJ therapy. First, we’ll analyze your jaw to help us understand your symptoms, such as teeth grinding, jaw clenching, or misaligned teeth. We’ll also complete a bite analysis or digital x-ray to see if there are other deeper problems with your jaw.

Once we determine the cause of your pain, we’ll then develop a customized treatment plan to help alleviate your symptoms. We offer multiple treatment options, including night guards, splint therapy, or bite equilibration, that will provide comfort and relief from pain and can restore the functionality of your jaw.

Contact us today for help with your TMJ pain Houston

Approximately 10 million Americans suffer from TMJ pain. This can be a progressive condition that needs to be addressed before it gets worse. If you are experiencing any pain or discomfort in the jaw area, it’s important to contact Dr. Mohamad El-Kheir or Dr. Matthew Gemp at Evolution Dentistry in Houston, TX for treatment. Schedule your consultation today to help find relief from your jaw pain.