Your jaw has been hurting for the past couple of days now. You’re starting to think the pain means that something is wrong, but how can you tell whether you have a TMJ disorder or a sore muscle?
It’s understandable to feel confused. “Jaw pain” is a pretty vague symptom that’s associated with a lot of different medical issues. Fortunately, there are ways to narrow down the possibilities and determine whether you should visit a dentist for an official diagnosis. Keep reading to learn more!
Do This Simple TMJ Test At Home
This at-home test doesn’t require any bells or whistles. Simply follow these steps:
- Open your mouth ever-so-slightly
- Place your fingers against your TMJ on both sides of your jaw (TMJs are located in front of your ears, where your upper and lower jaw meet)
- Now start to widen your mouth, and continue until you feel your TMJs move
If your TMJs click, snap, pop, or feel tender, you could very well have a TMJ disorder.
Do You Experience Any of These Symptoms?
Unlike some other conditions that cause jaw pain, TMJs disorders often (though not always) come with other symptoms, such as:
- Pain or stiffness in your facial muscles, neck, or shoulders
- An audible clicking sound when you move your jaw
- Lockjaw (feeling like your jaw is “locked” in place)
- Tension headaches or migraines
- Tinnitus (unexplainable ringing or humming in the ears)
- Lingering soreness after chewing gum or other “intensive” snacks
If you answered “yes” to any of these, that’s another sign you could have a TMJ disorder.
Seek Out An Official Diagnosis
While an at-home test and examining your symptoms can help you determine whether it’s likely you have a TMJ disorder, they don’t provide enough evidence for an official diagnosis. A dentist with specialized training can look at your bite and jaw X-rays to determine whether you actually have a TMJ disorder. It’s better to seek out a diagnosis and know for sure than it is to be semi-convinced that you maybe-quite-possibly need treatment!
About the Practice
Dr. Amanda Hyland is our TMJ expert at Hyland Dental. She’s completed advanced training courses on treating TMJ disorders, and is a proud member of the American Academy of Craniofacial Pain. If you suspect you might have a TMJ disorder, Dr. Hyland would be happy to see you, provide you with an official diagnosis, and help put together your treatment plan. Simply call our office at 507-387-3249 to get started!