The temporomandibular joint plays a major role in chewing, speech, facial expressions, and even immune system function. Ignoring problems with the mandible can lead to serious health problems.
Neurologist Dr. Artem Baryshev identifies less obvious but serious symptoms of TMJ.
According to him, the lower jaw is connected to the skull by a highly mobile joint, and four muscles together help control its movement, ensuring adequate mobility and chewing. Furthermore, these muscles replace each other and act as "safety devices" to prevent a person from losing the ability to speak, express facial expressions, and eat.
He says, "Because there are four muscles in the joint, a wide range of problems can develop. The most prominent of these are facial pain and headaches, including those involving the facial and chewing muscles, as a result of constant overload."
He points out that the habit of using only one side of the jaw for chewing can cause joint dysfunction, which can eventually lead to chronic inflammation. Involuntary teeth grinding, which destroys tooth enamel and alters tooth position, poses a particular risk. Another less obvious consequence is the development of chronic inflammation in the oropharynx, as the normal function of the joint actually allows for lymphatic circulation, which stimulates local immune activity. Without this, infection can develop in the tissues.
The doctor identifies the main symptoms that require attention: morning jaw pain, difficulty opening the mouth (when two folded fingers cannot be placed between the teeth), headache in the temples, and decreased facial movement.
According to him, if a person considers himself generally healthy and does not experience any particular physical difficulties, but at the same time experiences constant tension in the neck and limited mobility, it is likely that part of the cervical vertebrae is bearing the burden of the jaws.
To prevent complications, the doctor recommends paying attention to early symptoms and performing facial exercises.