Temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorder is a condition that can cause pain and discomfort in the jaw and surrounding areas. Often, people may not realize that the symptoms they experience are related to TMJ disorder. Here are six common signs that could indicate you have TMJ disorder, along with tips on how to identify them and seek appropriate treatment.

1. Have You Ever Injured Your Neck, Head, or Jaws?

Injuries to the neck, head, or jaws are common causes of TMJ disorder. If you’ve been in an accident, suffered from a sports-related injury, or experienced any trauma to these areas, it could disrupt the alignment of your jaw. This misalignment puts stress on the temporomandibular joints, leading to discomfort or pain. Often, people don’t immediately connect a past injury to their current jaw pain, so if you have a history of injury, it’s important to consult with local dentists to determine whether TMJ is the source of your symptoms.

2. Have You Had Problems With Other Joints, Such as Arthritis?

If you have arthritis or other joint-related issues, you may be more susceptible to TMJ disorder. Conditions like osteoarthritis or rheumatoid arthritis can affect the cartilage that cushions your temporomandibular joints, leading to inflammation and pain. People with arthritis often experience stiffness or discomfort in multiple joints, including the jaw. If you’ve been diagnosed with joint problems, and you’re feeling pain or stiffness in your jaw, it’s worth discussing these symptoms with local dentists who are experienced in treating TMJ disorders.

3. Do Your Teeth No Longer Touch When You Bite?

One sign of TMJ disorder is noticing that your bite has changed. If your teeth no longer meet properly when you bite down, or you feel like your upper and lower teeth don't align like they used to, this could be a sign of jaw misalignment caused by TMJ. This misalignment can result from joint damage or muscle tension, which disrupts how your teeth come together. Consulting with local dentists can help you understand if this bite issue is related to TMJ and what can be done to correct it.

4. Do Your Teeth Meet Differently From Time to Time?

Another clue that you might have TMJ disorder is if your bite seems inconsistent. If your teeth meet differently at various times throughout the day, it’s likely due to shifting in the position of your jaw joints. This can make eating uncomfortable, and in some cases, you may feel your jaw "slip" or "pop" into a different position. If this happens frequently, it’s a strong indication of TMJ dysfunction. Addressing these symptoms early with the help of a TMJ specialist can prevent further damage and discomfort.

5. Is It Hard to Use Your Front Teeth to Bite or Tear Food?

Difficulty biting or tearing food with your front teeth is another sign of TMJ disorder. If you find yourself avoiding certain foods or compensating by using the side of your mouth to chew, this could indicate an issue with your jaw alignment. TMJ disorder often causes stiffness in the jaw muscles, making it hard to use your front teeth efficiently. Over time, this could affect how you chew and digest food, so seeking help from local dentists is essential for restoring normal jaw function.

6. Are Your Teeth Sensitive, Loose, Broken, or Worn?

Chronic grinding or clenching, which often accompanies TMJ disorder, can take a toll on your teeth. If your teeth feel sensitive, appear loose, are broken, or seem worn down, it may be due to the pressure exerted by jaw misalignment or excessive grinding. This can lead to further dental problems if left untreated. According to the Academy of Implant Dentistry, more than 30 million Americans are missing all of their teeth in at least one jaw, often due to untreated dental issues. Consulting with Jay I. Swanson, DDS, MD, FACS can help you prevent serious dental complications related to TMJ.

If you’re experiencing any of these signs, it’s important to address the issue before it worsens. TMJ disorder can lead to long-term discomfort and dental damage if left untreated. Contact Jay I. Swanson, DDS, MD, FACS today to schedule a consultation and explore treatment options for TMJ disorder. Early intervention can relieve pain and protect your oral health. Don’t wait until the pain becomes unbearable—take the first step toward relief today!