Temporomandibular Joint Disorder (commonly referred to as TMJ or TMD) affects the jaw joint and surrounding muscles, causing discomfort, pain, and difficulty with basic activities like chewing or speaking. Despite its prevalence, TMJ disorders are often misdiagnosed, leaving patients struggling to find relief. But why is this issue so commonly mistaken for other conditions?
Overlapping Symptoms with Other Disorders
One of the main reasons TMJ is misdiagnosed is the similarity of its symptoms to other health conditions. TMJ disorders often cause symptoms like headaches, earaches, facial pain, neck tension, and even dizziness—symptoms that can lead doctors to explore issues like migraines, sinus infections, or even ear disorders instead. Because the jaw joint is located near multiple critical structures (like the ears and sinuses), it’s easy to confuse its inflammation with other conditions.
Limited Awareness of TMJ in General Medicine
While dentists and specialists are generally well-versed in TMJ disorders, general practitioners may not immediately consider TMD when evaluating certain symptoms. For example, persistent headaches or neck pain may be treated as tension headaches without examining the jaw or bite alignment. This can delay the proper diagnosis and further complicate treatment.
Unseen Root Causes
Another complicating factor is that TMJ disorders are sometimes symptoms of larger, underlying conditions, such as sleep apnea or bruxism (teeth grinding). Sleep apnea in particular is closely linked to TMJ. Misalignment in the airway contributes to jaw tension, which can worsen throughout the night. Unfortunately, unless dental evaluations are included in the diagnosis, the connection between TMJ and other conditions is often overlooked.
Get the Right Diagnosis and Relief
If you’re experiencing persistent jaw pain, headaches, or difficulty chewing, it’s essential to seek a professional evaluation from a dentist who specializes in TMJ disorders. At Sleep Apnea & TMJ Solutions in Brentwood and Murfreesboro, TN, we take a thorough approach to diagnosis, looking at the jaw, bite alignment, and any sleep-related issues to uncover the root cause of your discomfort.
Don’t settle for a misdiagnosis—schedule a consultation with us today and take the first step toward proper treatment and lasting relief.
Contact Sleep Apnea & TMJ Solutions:
615-621-4663
Location (Tap To Open In Google Maps):
1177 Old Hickory Blvd, Suite 203
Brentwood, TN 370271605 Medical Center Pkwy, Suite 215
Murfreesboro, TN 37129
