5 Telltale Signs You May Need to See a Dentist for TMJ Therapy

TMJ refers to your temporomandibular joints, which connect your jaw to your skull. These joints control the movements of your jaw. When your TMJs work properly, you have full jaw mobility for talking, eating, laughing, yawning, etc. Problems with these joints can lead to jaw pain, painful chewing, headaches, ear aches, and other painful symptoms. 

At Ridgewood Dentistry, we want you to recognize the signs of TMJ dysfunction so you can get treatment before your condition worsens. Dr. Warren Boardman is your go-to dentist for TMJ therapy in the Ridgewood, New Jersey, area and can help relieve TMJ jaw pain. 

Here are five telltale signs you may need to see your Ridgewood dentist for TMJ therapy:

1. Jaw Pain
   TMJ dysfunction can cause jaw pain and tenderness, making it difficult to open your mouth, talk, or chew. You may feel a dull, aching, or sharp pain every time you move your jaw. Persistent pain for no apparent reason is a sign that something is amiss with your jaw. An evaluation by Dr. Boardman can determine the cause of your pain so you can get appropriate treatment.
   
2. Jaw Stiffness/Loss of Jaw Mobility 
   TMJ dysfunction can occur for various reasons, such as accidental jaw injury, severe bruxism, an uneven bite, stress, arthritis, or other health issues. These issues can lead to jaw stiffness and loss of jaw mobility. You may feel that your jaw is “locked” in place, and you have little control over its movements. A visit to Dr. Boardman will give you an accurate diagnosis of your condition so you can correct it before it gets out of hand.
   
3. Clicking or Popping Noises When Opening & Closing Your Mouth
   Damage to your TMJs or its components can lead to clicking or popping noises when you open or close your mouth. The noises could result from a damaged jaw disc or worn cartilage. If you’re experiencing discomfort or pain in addition to these noises, it’s time to see your Ridgewood dentist to pinpoint the cause of your symptoms. 
   
4. Tinnitus/Earaches 
   As your TMJs are situated next to your ears, problems with these joints can impact your ear’s health and function. You may experience earaches, tinnitus (a ringing in your ears) or clogged ears as a result of your condition. Frequent bouts with ear pain or tinnitus not caused by an ear infection or allergies could be due to TMJ dysfunction. 
   
5. Frequent Headaches
   Frequent headaches comparable to migraines are yet another sign of problems with your TMJs, especially if your headaches are accompanied by jaw pain, stiffness, tenderness, and other TMJ symptoms. The sooner you get an accurate diagnosis of your condition, the sooner you can start TMJ treatment to get relief. 

Dentist Who Treats TMJ Near Me

To learn more about TMJ therapy and how it can benefit you, contact Dr. Warren Boardman from Ridgewood Dentistry in Ridgewood, NJ, at (201) 448-8605.

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