Jaw joint pain, also known as temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorder, is a condition that causes pain and discomfort in the jaw joint and the surrounding muscles. Recognizing jaw joint pain is important in order to properly diagnose and treat the condition.
Symptoms of Jaw Joint Pain
The most common symptoms of jaw joint pain are pain and tenderness in the jaw joint, difficulty in opening and closing the jaw, clicking or popping sound when opening or closing the jaw, and pain or tenderness in the jaw muscles. Other symptoms may include headaches, earaches, neck pain, and facial pain.
Diagnosis of Jaw Joint Pain
A doctor or dentist will typically diagnose jaw joint pain by performing a physical exam and taking a medical history. Imaging tests, such as X-rays or CT scans, may be used to rule out other conditions that may cause similar symptoms. A doctor may also order blood tests to check for infections or other underlying conditions.
Treatment of Jaw Joint Pain
Treatment for jaw joint pain depends on the underlying cause. Non-surgical treatments may include rest, over-the-counter pain medications, heat or cold therapy, physical therapy, and splint therapy. In more severe cases, surgery may be required.