Symptoms of TMJ
Temporomandibular joint (TMJ) dysfunction affects approximately 20 percent of all Americans according to the American Dental Association.  It can mimic many other diseases, and therefore is often misdiagnosed or overlooked.

Common symptoms

• Dull aching pain around the ear, often radiating into the face, neck, back of head and shoulders
• Certain types of headaches, sometimes of migraine proportions
• Ringing in the ears, hearing loss, “plugged” ears, ear pain
• Tenderness of the jaw muscles
• Clicking or popping noises when opening or closing the mouth
• Difficulty opening the mouth or chewing, locking of jaws open or closed

The temporomandibular joints are the hinges located on either side of the face that connect the lower jaw to the skull.  Each temporomandibular joint has two sections that permit the hinge and gliding actions needed to open the mouth widely.

If you answered “Yes” to any of  these questions, there is a probability that you have mild, moderate or severe TMJ.  To learn more  about TMJ, contact Dr. Scherer and make an appointment:  866-249-6443 or visit our contact page for further information.