How to Tell the Difference Between TMJ and Regular Jaw Pain

How to Tell the Difference Between TMJ and Regular Jaw Pain

Jaw pain can be a pervasive issue that disrupts our daily lives, making even the most mundane tasks like speaking, eating, or yawning to become uncomfortable. It can range from acute and temporary to chronic and persistent. To effectively deal with it, we need to understand what causes it and how it manifests.

Among the various types of jaw pain, two stand out as the most common: regular jaw pain and temporomandibular joint dysfunction, commonly known as TMJ. To deal with jaw pain effectively, it's crucial to tell these two apart, as their causes, symptoms, and treatments can differ significantly.
 

Understanding TMJ

TMJ is a disorder that affects the temporomandibular joint, which connects your jaw to the temporal bones of your skull. This joint is complex, and it's responsible for allowing your jaw to move smoothly when you talk, chew, or yawn. When this joint is affected, it can cause a range of discomfort and symptoms, often more severe than regular jaw pain.


The causes of TMJ are varied. It can be due to genetics, arthritis, jaw injury, or even habits like teeth grinding and clenching. It's also been linked to certain types of connective tissue diseases. Chronic stress, which often leads to jaw clenching, can also contribute to TMJ.


The symptoms of TMJ can be quite diverse. They often include a pain in your jaw joint area, pain in the ears, difficulty or discomfort while chewing, facial pain, and locking of the jaw joint. Some people also experience an uncomfortable clicking or grating sensation when they open their mouth or chew.
 

Recognizing Regular Jaw Pain

Regular jaw pain, on the other hand, can be caused by a variety of factors. These can include sinus infections, tooth decay, gum disease, or even a heart attack. It's important to note that regular jaw pain is usually temporary and will often resolve once the underlying issue is addressed.


The symptoms of regular jaw pain can vary depending on the cause. For instance, if the pain is due to a sinus infection, you might experience a constant dull ache around your cheekbones or under your eyes. On the other hand, tooth decay or gum disease might cause a sharp, throbbing pain that worsens when you eat or drink something hot or cold.


While regular jaw pain and TMJ can share some symptoms, such as discomfort while chewing or talking, there are key differences that can help distinguish between the two.
 

The Difference Between TMJ and Regular Jaw Pain

The main difference between TMJ and regular jaw pain lies in their causes and symptoms. While TMJ is a disorder of the jaw joint itself and often has a more chronic and pervasive nature, regular jaw pain is usually temporary and caused by various factors not directly related to the jaw joint.


TMJ often causes more systemic symptoms, such as ear pain, headaches, and a clicking or grating sound in the jaw. Regular jaw pain, however, is usually localized and does not cause systemic symptoms.


Another key difference lies in the treatment. While TMJ often requires a more comprehensive approach, including lifestyle changes, medications, and sometimes even surgery, regular jaw pain can often be resolved by treating the underlying issue, such as a sinus infection or tooth decay.
 

The Role of Chiropractic Care in Treating TMJ and Regular Jaw Pain

Chiropractic care can play a significant role in treating both TMJ and regular jaw pain. A chiropractor can use various techniques to alleviate the pain, improve jaw function, and address the root causes of the discomfort.


For TMJ, a chiropractor can perform adjustments to the jaw joint, helping to realign it and reduce the strain on the surrounding muscles and tissues. They can also provide exercises and advice to help manage stress, a common contributor to TMJ.


For regular jaw pain, a chiropractor can help identify and address the underlying issues. For instance, if the pain is due to poor posture, a chiropractor can provide adjustments and exercises to correct the posture and alleviate the pressure on the jaw.
 

The Benefits of Chiropractic Care for Jaw Pain

Chiropractic care offers many benefits for those suffering from jaw pain. First and foremost, it provides relief from pain. By addressing the root causes of the discomfort, chiropractic care can help reduce the intensity and frequency of the pain, improving the quality of life.


Another benefit of chiropractic care is its holistic approach. Instead of merely treating the symptoms, chiropractors strive to understand and address the underlying issues causing the pain. This can lead to more sustainable, long-term relief.


Additionally, chiropractic care is a non-invasive and drug-free approach. This makes it a safer alternative to other treatments, which might involve medications with potential side effects or invasive procedures.
 

Relieve Your Symptoms of TMJ or Jaw Pain Today

Understanding the difference between TMJ and regular jaw pain is crucial in seeking the right treatment. While their symptoms can overlap, their causes and treatments vary significantly. Chiropractic care can play a significant role in treating both conditions, providing pain relief, addressing the root causes, and improving overall jaw function.


If you're struggling with TMJ or jaw pain and would like to explore the benefits of chiropractic, visit Ogden Wellness Center at our office in Ogden, Utah. Please call (801) 406-3949 to book an appointment today.