The Low Down on TMJ

Did you know that you could have a Temporomandibular joint problem and not even know it?  The temporomandibular joint (TMJ) is the joint that connects your lower jaw to your skull.  Traditionally we think of people that have TMJ problems as having pain at rest or during jaw movement, difficulty opening the mouth or having some degree of locking of the jaw either open or closed.  They find it difficult, if not painful, to eat or chew and may have crepitus (that popping noise).

However, there are other less commonly known symptoms. These are aching in the face, head, neck, and ear, grinding of the teeth, and, the one I find most often is biting of the cheeks, lips and tongue on accident.  This is a sign that the jaw is not functioning as it is supposed to.

Many people are not even aware that they may have a misalignment of the jaw joint.  Neck pain, headaches, tinnitus (ringing of the ears), ear infections, and a perceived hearing loss may also indicate a TMJ problem.  Whiplash trauma, from car accidents and even amusement park rides, can cause a TMJ misalignment.  Even a trip to your dentist for your six month cleaning and checkup can cause stress on the TMJ resulting in a misalignment.

Chiropractors can check this jaw joint, gently adjust it if needed, and make sure that your body is able to function at 100% of your potential.  (Not to mention eating your meal in peace!)  If you suspect that you or someone you know may have a TMJ misalignment, please talk to your chiropractor.  Additional research can be found at www.Activator.com.