What Happens if TMJ Is Not Treated?
In many cases, TMJ disorders can be treated effectively with some simple measures. Without treatment, however, the pain of TMJ can persist, interfering with daily life and possibly leading to serious medical conditions. These types of jaw disorders can be intermittent or chronic and may be exacerbated by stress or aggravated by normal daily tasks. Because each case of TMJ is different, with a multitude of possible causes and an array of diverse symptoms, treatment will vary from patient to patient, though most treatment methods are straightforward and non-invasive. Without treatment, however, lifelong issues could arise, some of which are more damaging than others.
What Are Some Possible Complications of Untreated TMJ?
The location of the temporomandibular joints – at the sides of the face, just below the ears – can create painful complications throughout the head, neck, face, and ears. Radiating pain is a common symptom of inflammation in the jaw, and this associated pain will also diminish as TMJ is treated. In some cases, however, inflammation can affect delicate tissues and cause lasting damage. Another issue that often comes with TMJ is difficulty in opening the mouth or moving the jaw. When eating, drinking, or swallowing cause pain, some people may choose to modify their diets rather than seeking treatment, leading to disordered eating and diminished quality of life. Others choose to self-medicate, choosing recreational drugs or alcohol to relax the jaw and reduce the pain; the habits associated with this choice can be difficult to shake. Although it may seem that TMJ disorders only affect the jaw, this is not the case. In fact, untreated TMJ can lead to multiple issues, including:
- Compromised hearing, ringing in the ear, dizziness, vertigo, and other inner ear issues
- Lockjaw
- Dental issues, like fractured or worn-down teeth
- Asymmetrical muscle growth that creates an uneven facial appearance
- Medical conditions caused by self-medication
- Insomnia and sleep disturbances
- Mental health issues, like depression or eating disorders
Thankfully, there are many non-surgical, non-invasive therapies that have proven successful in treating TMJ. Many of these therapies require minimal investment while providing excellent results. For example, when TMJ is caused by stress, relaxation techniques and stress-reduction methods can eliminate symptoms and cure the condition. Similarly, when TMJ is caused by bruxism, addressing bruxism with a night guard can also eliminate TMJ. Your doctor or dentist can provide you with techniques that will help you address your TMJ, whatever its cause may be; all you need to do is comply with the treatment plan. Treatment options are designed to reduce pain and increase the mobility and comfort of the jaw, restoring the temporomandibular joint to its proper, healthy function. And, it turns out that restoring the health of the jaw could help you control your health in ways you might not realize, preventing long-lasting conditions from developing and preserving your oral and overall health. If you notice that your jaw feels tender or sore on one or both sides, or if you feel tension or discomfort when you open or close your mouth or when you swallow, see your dentist or medical provider to learn how to nip this issue in the bud and restore your path to a healthy, balanced future.