What Happens if TMJ is Not Treated?
Temporomandibular joint disorder (TMD) starts in the jaw but unfortunately causes symptoms that extend beyond these joints. When pain associated with the disorder is left untreated, it puts patients at a greater risk for complications and additional symptoms. If you have pain in your jaw, it is important to follow up with your dentist to determine the cause and to create a treatment plan. Treating pain associated with TMJ disorder begins with determining the cause of the issue. Next, the dental professional will work with patients on developing a treatment plan to treat the symptoms and discomfort. Below is a summary of what happens when TMJ disorder is not treated.
Headaches
One of the most common symptoms associated with TMJ disorder is headaches, This also includes tension headaches and migraines. These headaches are triggered by the joint malfunctioning, which can result in severe and debilitating discomfort. In some cases, patients can find relief from an over-the-counter pain medication. Unfortunately, the relief is temporary, and the headache will typically return. These headaches can negatively impact daily living and make it difficult for patients to attend school, work, and social obligations.
Pain and Jaw Damage
In the beginning of TMJ disorder, pain in the jaw may be off and on. Stress, eating chewy foods, or sleeping can also trigger the discomfort. Over time, the damage to the temporomandibular joint takes its toll. This results in more chronic pain and other symptoms, including jaw popping and challenges opening and closing the mouth.
The pain can go beyond the joint,s resulting in discomfort of the neck, face, shoulders, and more. In more severe cases of TMJ disorder, surgical intervention may be required. In order to prevent permanent damage to the joint, it is important to take a proactive approach in treating TMJ disorder.
Hearing
A patient’s hearing can also be impacted when TMJ disorder is left untreated over time. Because the temporomandibular joints are close to the ear canals, the symptoms can affect the ears. Symptoms can include things such as the sensation of fullness in the ears and a constant ringing called tinnitus. In some cases, these issues related to the ears can negatively impact a patient’s sleep. In addition, the inner ears play a vital role in your balance. When the ears have inflammation from TMJ disorder, it can result in vertigo, feeling unsteady, and dizziness.
Oral Habits
Bruxism is another thing that can happen when TMJ disorder is not treated in a timely manner. This chronic grinding of the teeth and jaw clenching can place extreme pressure on the teeth. This results in damage to the tooth’s enamel and can put the teeth at a higher risk for cracks, fractures, and damage. Patients may also start favoring one side of the mouth over the other, resulting in uneven wear, facial swelling, and muscular issues.
Call the office today if you are experiencing pain that may be associated with the temporomandibular joint. Ignoring TMJ disorder can result in pain and other consequences. The dental team will complete an examination and review your symptoms to determine the cause. The dentist may also order X-rays to have better visibility of the issue. A treatment plan will then be created to resolve the symptoms and restore your oral health, which may include the creation of a night guard.