Beyond the Click: The Hidden Dangers of Untreated TMJ
That persistent click in your jaw might seem like a minor annoyance. You might blame it on stress or simply learn to live with it. However, issues with the temporomandibular joint (TMJ) can lead to far more serious problems than just a noisy jaw. Ignoring these symptoms can impact your overall health in unexpected ways, from chronic headaches to serious sleep disturbances.
At Sleep Apnea & TMJ Solutions in Brentwood and Murfreesboro, TN, Dr. Bryan McLaughlin specializes in diagnosing and treating these complex conditions. With a deep understanding of facial and jaw mechanics, Dr. McLaughlin provides expert care to help patients find lasting relief.
The Surprising Complications of TMJ Disorders
When your TMJ—the hinge connecting your jaw to your skull—doesn’t function correctly, it can trigger a chain reaction of symptoms throughout your body. While jaw pain and clicking are common signs, untreated TMJ disorders can also cause:
- Chronic Headaches and Migraines: The muscles around your jaw are connected to your head and neck. Constant tension from a misaligned jaw can lead to frequent, debilitating headaches that are often mistaken for other conditions.
- Ear Pain and Tinnitus: You might experience earaches, a feeling of fullness in your ears, or a persistent ringing sound known as tinnitus. This occurs because the TMJ is located very close to the ear canal.
- Sleep Apnea: A misaligned jaw can cause your airway to narrow or collapse during sleep, leading to obstructive sleep apnea. This serious condition interrupts your breathing, disrupts your sleep cycle, and increases your risk for other health problems.
- Neck and Shoulder Pain: The strain on your jaw muscles can radiate downwards, causing stiffness and pain in your neck, shoulders, and even your upper back.
Finding Expert Treatment in Tennessee
Ignoring these symptoms won’t make them disappear. Seeking professional care is crucial for preventing long-term damage and reclaiming your quality of life. Dr. Bryan McLaughlin is a highly respected prosthodontist with extensive training in complex dental issues. His memberships in prestigious organizations like the American Dental Association, American College of Prosthodontists, American Association of Fixed Prosthodontics, and the American Academy of Dental Sleep Medicine reflect his commitment to the highest standards of care.
At Sleep Apnea & TMJ Solutions, treatment is never one-size-fits-all. Dr. McLaughlin uses advanced diagnostics to identify the root cause of your TMJ issue. Based on your specific needs, he may recommend treatments such as custom oral appliances. These devices are designed to reposition your jaw, relieve muscle tension, and protect your teeth from grinding, providing significant relief from pain and other symptoms.
Am I Suffering from TMJ?
If you are experiencing any of the issues mentioned above, it’s worth considering if a TMJ disorder could be the cause. Ask yourself these questions:
- Do you experience frequent pain in your jaw, face, neck, or around your ears?
- Does your jaw click, pop, or get stuck when you open or close your mouth?
- Do you suffer from chronic headaches, especially in the morning?
- Have you been told you snore loudly or stop breathing during sleep?
- Do you find it difficult to chew or feel like your bite is “off”?
If you answered yes to any of these, don’t wait for the problem to get worse. Contact Sleep Apnea & TMJ Solutions to schedule a consultation with Dr. McLaughlin at our Brentwood or Murfreesboro location. Taking that first step can be the key to unlocking a life free from pain and discomfort.
Contact Sleep Apnea & TMJ Solutions:
615-850-8445
Location (Tap To Open In Google Maps):
1177 Old Hickory Blvd, Suite 203
Brentwood, TN 370271605 Medical Center Pkwy, Suite 215
Murfreesboro, TN 37129
