2. Jaw Pain
The temporomandibular joint plays a critical role in the function of the jaw and other surrounding areas of the skull. It’s rare for people to experience TMJ dysfunction in both joints. However, inflammation may spread from the joint to the jaw, creating a pain response in the entire jawline. The severity of jaw pain depends upon the extent of the inflammation produced by the displaced disc.
People with minor TMJ dysfunction may notice a slight ache that shoots across the jawline from one side of the head to the other. However, those living with advanced dysfunction of the TMJ may experience intense symptoms of pain that include a dull ache and flashes of pain that can even create temporary blindness.
Jaw pain is one of the most common signs of TMJ, and it also presents itself amidst other symptoms that may include a headache and migraines, as well as a toothache and lockjaw.