Temporomandibular Joint Dysfunction Symptoms
In the previous video, we introduced temporomandibular joint (TMJ) dysfunction. Now, let's discuss its symptoms. The most common complaint we encounter is pain, usually felt in front of the ear, but it can also radiate to the temple, jaw, or even the lower neck, depending on the underlying issue. This pain often worsens when opening or closing the mouth. For some, the pain is acute and severe, with patients often arriving in tears. Others experience chronic pain, tolerating it until it becomes unbearable, affecting their quality of life, including eating and chewing.
Along with pain, many patients report hearing joint sounds, such as clicking, grating, or popping noises. This can result from issues with the disc between the joint surfaces, similar to the discs in the spine, leading to a mismatch in movement. Another common symptom is joint stiffness or "lockjaw," where the patient wakes up unable to open their mouth. In some cases, patients can open their mouth but have difficulty closing it due to partial joint dislocation.
If you're experiencing any of these symptoms, please reach out to us at Aster RV Hospital, JP Nagar, for diagnosis and treatment.