A Few Signs that You Probably Have TMJ DisorderSome types of aches and pains can be immediately traced to a single cause that your dentist can easily address. For instance, a toothache often indicates a cavity, which your dentist can restore with the help of a tooth-colored filling. Other types of discomfort, however, are more complex to diagnose despite their sometimes severe intensity. For example, patients in North Hollywood who experience aches, pains, decreased function, and more in and around their jaws may not immediately realize that their discomfort is caused by TMJ disorder.

Popping and/or clicking TMJs

When you open and close your jaws, your temporomandibular joints (TMJs) should allow your jaw to move smoothly. However, when TMJ disorder develops, the joints can’t move as smoothly as they should. This can often lead to your TMJs popping and/or clicking every time they move, which could become increasingly more painful the longer your TMJ disorder is left untreated.

Uneven movement when you bite and chew

Another contributing reason to popping and clicking TMJs is the fact that some patients may have uneven jawbones or their TMJs may be out of alignment. This misalignment can force your jaw to move unevenly every time you bite and chew. Though you may not feel it, you may be able to see it by standing in front of a mirror and watching as you carefully open and close your jaw.

Chronic teeth-grinding (especially at night)

When your jaw can’t operate or rest comfortably, your TMJs and jaw muscles can become overactive, especially at night. This results in chronic teeth-grinding – a condition known as bruxism – which may occur more frequently as you sleep and cannot control the movement. If your teeth are increasingly sensitive and you notice that their surfaces seem to be smoothing out, then you may be grinding your teeth as a result of TMJ disorder.

Learn if TMJ Treatment Can Help

If you exhibit these or any other signs of TMJ disorder, then seeking treatment as soon as possible could help you alleviate the discomfort and dysfunction resulting from it. For more information, schedule a consultation by calling Modern Smile in North Hollywood, CA, today at 818-763-9353. We also proudly serve patients who live in Burbank, Toluca Lake, and all surrounding communities.