Temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders are a common health problem that affects the muscles, joints, and surrounding structures of the jaw. If left untreated, TMJ disorders can have serious long-term effects on both your physical and emotional health. In this article, we will discuss some of the most common and serious long-term effects of TMJ disorders, as well as some ways to prevent and treat this condition.
Physical Effects of Untreated TMJ Disorders
The muscles, joints, and ligaments of the jaw are used for a variety of everyday activities such as speaking, eating, and yawning. When the TMJ becomes imbalanced, it can cause chronic pain and discomfort. Some of the physical effects of untreated TMJ disorders can include the following:
- Pain and Discomfort: The most common symptom of untreated TMJ disorders is chronic pain and discomfort in the jaw area. This pain can become more severe over time, and it can also spread to the teeth, neck, and shoulders.
- Difficulty Chewing and Swallowing: If left untreated, TMJ disorders can lead to difficulty chewing and swallowing due to the pain and discomfort that is often associated with this condition. This can also lead to weight loss and malnutrition.
- Lock Jaw: In severe cases, untreated TMJ disorders can eventually lead to a condition known as lock jaw, which is characterized by the inability to open or close the mouth fully.
- Earache: Some individuals with untreated TMJ disorders may also experience earaches or tinnitus (ringing in the ears) due to the close proximity of the joint to the ear canal.
- Grinding or Clicking of the Jaw: When the TMJ becomes imbalanced, it can cause the jaw to grind or click when opening and closing the mouth.
Emotional Effects of Untreated TMJ Disorders
In addition to the physical symptoms, untreated TMJ disorders can also have a serious impact on your emotional health. Chronic pain and discomfort can lead to feelings of frustration, anxiety, and depression. These feelings can become particularly severe if the individual is unable to find a cure for the underlying cause of their symptoms.
Preventing and Treating TMJ Disorders
There are a few simple steps that you can take to help prevent TMJ disorders from occurring. For example, maintaining good dental hygiene, practicing good posture, and eating a healthy diet can all help to keep the muscles, joints, and ligaments in the jaw area healthy.
If you are already experiencing symptoms of TMJ disorder, it is important to seek medical attention as soon as possible. A dental or medical professional can help to accurately diagnose the underlying cause of the symptoms and develop a treatment plan to alleviate the pain and discomfort.
Some of the most common treatments for TMJ disorders include the following:
- Oral Appliances: An oral appliance, such as a mouthguard, can help to keep the jaw in the correct position during sleep to prevent clenching and grinding that can lead to TMJ disorders.
- Physical Therapy: Simple exercises and stretches can help to rehabilitate the muscles, joints, and ligaments of the jaw area to alleviate pain and discomfort.
- Medications: Over-the-counter pain relievers and anti-inflammatory medications may be prescribed to help alleviate symptoms of TMJ disorders.
- Surgery: In severe cases of TMJ disorders, surgery may be necessary to correct the underlying problem.
The Bottom Line
Untreated TMJ disorders can have serious long-term effects on both your physical and emotional health. If you are experiencing symptoms of TMJ disorder, it is important to seek medical attention as soon as possible. A dental or medical professional can help to accurately diagnose the underlying cause of your symptoms and develop a treatment plan to alleviate the pain and discomfort. Taking steps to prevent TMJ disorders, such as maintaining good dental hygiene, practicing good posture, and eating a healthy diet, can also help to keep the muscles, joints, and ligaments of the jaw area healthy.