Temporomandibular joint disorders are a group of complex problems which affect the jaw joint.
Why it occurs?
Problems can be for muscles working the joint or joint itself. Causes are-
- Bruxism/Teeth grinding/Teeth clenching
- Dental Problems
- Malocclusion
- Stress
- Jaw injury
- Habitual gum chewing
- Wear and tear to the inside of the joint
- Arthritis
- Fingernail biting
What are the Symptoms?
- Popping, grinding or crunching sounds: It is very common in people. It is medically termed crepitus. If you have a problem, you can hear the sound (feel like arising from the joint) at the time of opening/ closing your mouth.
- Difficulty opening the mouth because it feels locked or painful
- Pain in the chewing muscles or joint
- Dizziness
- The fullness of the ear
- Recurring headaches
- Ear pain
- Tinnitus/ Ringing in the ear
- Pain may spread to the face, neck, or shoulders