Temporomandibular disorders toothache occurs due to problems with the jaw, jaw joint and facial muscles surrounding which controls chewing and moving the jaw. The temporomandibular joint is the hinge joint which connects the lower jaw to the temporal bone of the skull. This is immediately in front of the ear placed on each side of your head. The joints are flexible. Due to the flexibility, it allows the jaw to move smoothly up and down and side to side. This enables you to talk, chew and even yawn. The muscles which are attached to and surrounding the jaw joint have the control in the position and movement of the jaw.
The cause of temporomandibular disorders toothache is not clear. However, dentists believe that the symptoms of this disorder arise from problems with the muscles of the jaw or due to the parts of the joint itself.
An injury to the jaw, temporomandibular joint or muscles of the head and neck can cause this disorder. Some other possibilities include grinding or clenching the teeth. The dislocation of the soft cushion or disc between the ball and socket can cause this kind of disorder.
Even the presence of osteoarthritis or rheumatoid arthritis and stress can cause tightening of facial and jaw muscles. This could also lead to even clenching of the teeth. Some people having this disorder can experience severe pain and discomfort. This pain can be temporary or it may last for many years. More women experience this than men and it is mostly seen among people in the age group of 20 and 40.
Some of the common symptoms surrounding this disorder include pain or tenderness in the face. It could also be jaw joint area, neck and shoulders. It can also be in or around the ear when you chew, speak or open your mouth wide. Apart from that, this disorder can lead to limited ability to open the mouth very wide to speak or chew anything. Clicking, popping or grating sounds in the jaw joint when opening or closing the mouth can be another symptom. You could also experience a tired feeling in the face. Apart from that, you will encounter difficulty in chewing or a sudden uncomfortable bite. Some people may also experience swelling on the side of the face. Some other common symptoms include toothaches, headaches, dizziness and earaches and hearing problems.
Since there are many other conditions which can cause similar symptoms like toothache, sinus problems, arthritis or gum disease, and your dentist will conduct a careful patient history analysis and also a clinical examination to determine the cause of your symptoms. You need to take precautions and appropriate care of the tooth to aggravate problems relating to tooth.