TMJ disorder often starts subtly—maybe a clicking jaw or occasional soreness when chewing. But if left untreated, those minor annoyances can turn into chronic problems that affect your daily life in many ways. If you’ve been putting off a trip to the dentist, here’s why it might be time to take your untreated TMJ disorder seriously.
What Is TMJ Disorder?
TMJ stands for temporomandibular joint. It’s the hinge that connects your jaw to your skull, and it’s one of the most complex structures in your body. TMJ disorder (sometimes called TMD) happens when this joint becomes inflamed, strained, or misaligned. Causes can range from teeth grinding, arthritis, stress, and injury, to a misaligned bite.
While symptoms vary, the most common signs include:
- Jaw pain or stiffness
- Clicking or popping when opening your mouth
- Headaches or earaches
- Difficulty chewing
- Facial pain or tenderness
If you’re experiencing any of these symptoms, it’s best to call your dentist to get a formal diagnosis. From there, treatment can begin.
What Are the Risks of Untreated TMJ Disorder?
While not all TMJ problems need professional treatment, they can often worsen with time until it’s the only option. Here are some of the issues you can expect:
Chronic Pain
Mild discomfort can quickly turn into constant pain in your jaw, neck, and shoulders. Many patients also experience frequent headaches and migraines that worsen over time.
Limited Jaw Function
TMJ can make it harder to open and close your mouth fully. If left untreated, this can lead to jaw locking or difficulty speaking and eating, making everyday tasks uncomfortable or even impossible.
Damage to Teeth and Gums
If your TMJ symptoms are caused by grinding or clenching, the pressure can wear down your enamel and even loosen teeth over time. This increases your risk for cavities, gum recession, and often leads to expensive restorative dental work.
Sleep Disruptions
TMJ pain can affect your ability to fall or stay asleep. In some cases, it’s linked to sleep apnea or nighttime teeth grinding (bruxism), which can lead to poor rest and daytime fatigue.
Emotional Toll
Living with chronic facial pain or discomfort can take a toll on your mental health, leading to irritability, anxiety, and lowered quality of life.
Professional Treatment Helps
TMJ disorder may sound serious—and it can be—but you have options! From occlusal splints and trigger point treatment to occlusal adjustments and Botox, your dentist can completely customize your solution. This will ease your symptoms and protect your jaw health long-term.
If you notice clicking, discomfort, or jaw tension, getting checked early on can save you a lot of pain and stress. So, schedule a quick consultation with your dentist when you can. One phone call could spare you years of unnecessary pain and help you get back to living life in comfort.
About the Practice
At Vason Family Dentistry of Buckhead, Dr. Carlisle Vason and Dr. Kristen Grisham understand how untreated TMJ disorder can affect daily life, from jaw pain and headaches to difficulty eating and enjoying conversations. We take a comprehensive approach to diagnosis and care, helping our patients find relief and protect their long-term oral health. Call (404) 367-9799 to schedule a TMJ consultation with our team or visit our website to see a full menu of services.