How TMJ Issues Affect Your Overall Health

Did you know that your jaw joint is one of the most complex joints in your body? Also known as the temporomandibular joint (TMJ), this joint connects your jawbone to your skull, allowing you to move your jaw up and down, side to side, and forward and backward. When your TMJ in Aventura works correctly, you won’t have difficulty speaking, chewing, and yawning. However, when something goes wrong, you may experience a painful condition called temporomandibular joint disorder (TMD).

Ways TMD Affects Your Overall Health

Chronic Pain

Since TMD causes chronic pain in the jaw, face, neck, and shoulders, it can interfere with your daily activities. The pain can be so debilitating that it affects your ability to eat, speak, or smile. Without intervention, TMD can make it difficult to maintain a normal life when it leads to physical and emotional exhaustion over time.  

Unexplained Headaches

TMD can trigger mild to severe headaches in various parts of the head. Moreover, the pain can be sharp or throbbing, lasting several hours or even days. Depending on the severity, TMD-induced headaches could interfere with your work, school, and social life.

Oral Health Issues

TMD can lead to long-term oral health issues, such as a misaligned bite or uneven wear and tear on the teeth. When your teeth and gums bear the brunt of TMD, you may experience tooth sensitivity, cracked teeth, or enamel erosion.  

This condition also increases your risk of tooth decay, gum disease, and a host of dental problems because the pain it causes makes it difficult to maintain proper oral hygiene.  

Sleep Problems  

The pain and discomfort TMD causes can disrupt your sleep patterns. When the TMJ is misaligned, it causes muscle tension and spasms, making it challenging to fall or stay asleep. Consequently, sleep disruption or restless sleep can impact your overall productivity, leading to daytime fatigue, irritability, and difficulty concentrating.

Do You Have Problems with Your TMJ in Aventura?

At Oral Facial Reconstruction, we’re committed to helping you get the oral and maxillofacial care you need. Contact us today to make an appointment.