What is the temporomandibular joint?
The temporomandibular joint, or TMJ, is responsible for moving our jaw. The muscles attached to this joint are situated close to the middle of the ears on either side of the skull. Chronic clenching of the jaw or grinding of the teeth (bruxism) can lead to the TMJ becoming inflamed and irritated. Many people are not consciously aware that they are even manifesting this behavior. A large portion of the affected population unconsciously puts stress on these joints while they are asleep.
The chronic earache connection
Numerous children and adults alike suffer from debilitating earaches every now and then. Chronic earaches, however, are often a symptom of TMJ dysfunction. Ear pain can develop suddenly, causing intense pressure and discomfort. It is easy to write off an earache as a common symptom of illness. However, if you are suffering from earaches on a regular basis that don’t respond to antibiotics, it’s probably time to visit a specially trained TruDenta dentist like Dr. Jared Ward at Fort Collins Headache Center.
Symptoms of TMJ disorders
If you are experiencing frequent earaches, headaches or migraines, hear or feel any painful grating, clicking or popping sounds when opening and closing your jaw or have difficulty chewing, it is definitely time to have these TMJ-related issues assessed. Additional TMJ symptoms to be aware of include:
- Broken or worn dental work
- Chronic ear issues
- Sleep apnea
- Tinnitus
- Stiff jaw muscles
- Neck, head or shoulder pain
- A change in how upper and lower teeth meet
- Radiating pain in the neck, face or jaw
Who knew it was all related to the TMJ?
Many patients are shocked to discover that the chronic pain they have been living with for years is due to their jaw. Too many people have accepted headache pain to be a regular part of their lives. This is unfortunate and unhealthy. Many individuals blame their computers, their stress levels and even their posture without even considering if their jaw muscles are correctly aligned. Similarly, patients who suffer from regular earaches sometimes wrongly believe that they have a compromised immune system or excessive wax build-up causing their issues.
TruDenta can solve your chronic earaches
The TruDenta System is a pain-free and drug-free way to assess your jaw and determine if TMJ dysfunction is at the root of your health concerns. The assessment exam is complete in as little as 20 minutes. Once we see the results of our unique Bite Force Analysis test and analyze your jaw`s range of motion, we will have comprehensive results of your TMJ health.
If you are a candidate for our breakthrough TruDenta therapy, a customized treatment plan is designed to help you attain optimum TMJ health. These lasting, drug-free solutions are changing people`s lives for the better. Say goodbye to your bothersome and painful earaches once and for all.
To book your consultation appointment, call our Fort Collins Headache Center today at 970-672-8517 or use the contact form on this page. Dr. Ward would love to help you finally lay your chronic earache issues to rest.
