TMJ dysfunction is often accompanied by the following signs and symptoms.

• Pain, particularly in the chewing muscles and/or jaw joint
• Limited movement or locking of the jaw
• Radiating pain in the face, neck, or shoulders
• Painful clicking, popping, or grating sounds in the jaw joint when opening or closing the mouth
• A sudden, major change in the way the upper and lower teeth fit together
• Also, sometimes headaches, earaches, dizziness, and hearing problems

2. What Causes It?

The only definitive cause of TMJ dysfunction is a severe injury, such as a heavy blow, to the jaw or temporomandibular joint. Other possible causes include the following.

• A bad bite (malocclusion)
• Orthodontic treatment, such as braces and the use of headgear
• Jaw clicking, which is more likely the sign of a displaced disk
• Stress, which may cause or aggravate TMJ dysfunction. People with TMJ dysfunction often clench or grind their teeth at night, which can tire the jaw muscles and lead to pain.

3. Who's Most At Risk?

The following risk factors are associated with TMJ dysfunction.

Gender—women seek treatment two times more than men Age—people 30 to 50 years of age are most often affected Nutritional or metabolic disorders Grinding teeth, clenching jaw Malocclusion (bad bite) High stress levels

4. What to Expect at Your Provider's Office

If you are experiencing symptoms associated with TMJ dysfunction, you should see your health care provider. He or she can help make a diagnosis and guide you in determining which treatment or combination of therapies will work best for you.

Your provider will check muscles in the area of the TMJ, look for asymmetry or inflammation in your face, listen for joint clicking or scraping sounds, test your mandibular range of motion, and look for evidence of jaw clenching or teeth grinding. If you're experiencing any neurological symptoms, such as numbness, your provider will give you a neurological examination. Imaging techniques may be used if there is evidence of degenerative disease or disk problems.