Progression of TMJ Disorders and Diseases:
When TMD symptoms arise, many TMJ problems improve on their own within days or weeks without treatment and by following simple conservative self-management techniques. This is particularly true for people who suffer with ‘muscle only’ causes of pain, and especially those that occur due to daytime parafunction typically associated with stress and anxiety. For others however, symptoms worsen over time and develop into long-term, persistent and debilitating pain that often has a major impact on a person’s quality of life.
What are the Common Signs and Symptoms of TMJ Disorders?
People who suffer from TMD most often report:
Medical –
Headaches and migraines
Neck stiffness
Ear problems (tinnitus, pain, stuffiness and blockage, a feeling of ear infection)
Dizziness
Facial pain and soreness including Trigeminal Neuralgia-type symptoms
Tiredness and insomnia
Excessive daytime sleepiness
Snoring and Sleep Apnoea
Lower and upper back pain
Shoulder and general muscle tenderness
Fibromyalgia
Postural problems
Sinus problems and feeling of recurring infections
Cold hands and feet
Poor circulation
Digestion problems and Irritable Bowel Syndrome
Anxiety and Depression
Dental –
Sore or sensitive teeth
Teeth and fillings that continually crack or break
Teeth grinding
Jaw clenching
Chewing difficulties
Loose teeth
Gum pain or problems such as bleeding and sensitivity
Limited mouth opening
Jaw joint pain and stiffness
Jaw noises such as clicking and grating
Jaw locking open or closed