TMJ (temporomandibular joint) disorders can indeed cause tooth pain. This is because of the unique position of theTMJ, which isclose to numerous muscles, nerves, and ligaments. As a result, pain from a TMJ disorder can often be referred to other parts of the face, neck, and head. This is known as referred pain, and in some cases, this referred pain can be so severe that it is mistaken for dental pain.
TMJ symptoms can range from mild to severe and may include pain in the jaw, aching pain around the ear, and difficulty or pain when eating. In severe cases, the jaw can become locked, making it difficult to open or close the mouth. The pain from TMJ can be dull, sharp, searing, sporadic, constant, or any combination of these. Different types of toothaches can cause similar pain, which may cause patients to believe they are suffering from a toothache instead of TMJ disorder. TMJ also causes tooth pain by irritating trigger points. These trigger points form when the muscle becomes contracted and stiff, reducing the supply of oxygenated blood, and increasing the release of toxins, which can cause tenderness.
While toothache can sometimes be caused by TMJ, it's important to recognize that the relationship runs deeper. If you've undergone extensive dental procedures, such as crowns or bridges, this can alter your bite, which, in turn, can place extra strain on the jaw joint. Unlike referred pain, TMJ pain occurs due to the new position of the mouth and the subsequent inflammation and irritation of the joint.
If left untreated, TMJ pain can become chronic, causing significant discomfort and potentially long-term damage to the TMJ and supporting structures. On the other hand, resolving a toothache by filling a cavity or fixing a worn-out restoration will generally resolve any TMJ pain caused by the toothache. However, the stress from the toothache may have also caused you to clench your teeth or grind your teeth, which can leave your TMJ sore for a time.
It can be challenging to differentiate between TMJ pain and toothache because the pain from TMJ can make your entire face hurt, including your teeth. This makes it hard to determine what kind of pain you are experiencing. If you believe your pain is coming from a TMJ disorder, if you have pain when biting down that is not due to a specific cavity, or if your symptoms persist, it may be beneficial to consult aTMJ specialist at Davis & Beyer Dental Health Professionals for a proper diagnosis and treatment plan.
December 5, 2024
