What is TMJ and How Does It Cause Jaw Pain?

TMJ refers to dysfunction in the temporomandibular joints—the hinges on either side of your jaw where it meets the skull. This disorder can result in various types of jaw pain, which can be effectively treated with advanced dental care in Columbia, SC, including:

  • Muscle soreness
  • Pain in the joint, often with clicking, popping, or difficulty moving
  • Tooth pain
  • Bone tenderness
  • Sharp, stabbing pain from pinched nerves

The complexity of the jaw joint system means that pain can come from muscle strain, joint misalignment, or nerve compression. A misaligned bite may lead to constant soreness in the teeth, jaw, or bone, which can worsen with teeth grinding. If untreated, it can also cause sharp pain or numbness due to pinched nerves.

Jaw Pain Linked to Other Symptoms

Your jaw pain may be connected to other symptoms, such as:

  • Tension headaches and neck or upper back pain from sore muscles
  • Ringing in the ears or migraines from pinched nerves
  • Worn or broken teeth from excessive pressure

When looking for restorative dentistry in Columbia, SC, be sure to mention all of your symptoms. A comprehensive evaluation will help us provide an accurate diagnosis and the right treatment to address your TMJ pain fully.

Consult a TMJ Expert in Columbia, SC

Dr. Adam Hahn has extensive training in diagnosing and treating TMJ and has helped many Columbia residents find relief. We are ready to help you too. Call us today at (803) 781-9090 to schedule your appointment.

Frequently Asked Questions

The most common symptoms of TMJ include jaw pain, soreness in the face or neck, headaches, clicking or popping sounds when moving the jaw, limited jaw movement, and pain or discomfort when chewing or speaking. These symptoms can range from mild to severe and may come and go.

Yes, headaches, particularly tension headaches or migraines, are common symptoms of TMJ. The pain often results from muscle tension in the jaw, neck, and head area, which can lead to frequent or chronic headaches.

Yes, TMJ can cause neck pain due to the muscle tension and imbalance in the temporomandibular joint. The pain may radiate from the jaw to the neck and upper back, often leading to stiffness or discomfort in these areas.

Clicking or popping sounds in the jaw are common TMJ symptoms. This often occurs when the jaw joint moves out of alignment, causing a displaced disc to make noise when opening or closing the mouth. The sounds are typically accompanied by pain or discomfort.

Yes, TMJ can lead to tooth pain, especially in the molars. This occurs due to the pressure on the teeth caused by the misalignment of the jaw. In some cases, it may also result in worn or broken teeth due to constant grinding or clenching.

Yes, TMJ can sometimes cause ringing in the ears (tinnitus) or a feeling of fullness in the ears. This is often related to pressure on the nerves near the jaw and head. It may also be associated with other symptoms, such as headaches or dizziness.