Possible TMJ?

[KLB32]

My dentist told me a few years ago I likely had TMJ after I complained about my jaw hurting and he said one of my bottom teeth looked worn down on the Xray.  He said if it got worse, I may need to wear a mouth guard at night to prevent teeth grinding.

I don't think I grind me teeth but I catch myself clenching my teeth all the time.

Can clenching of the teeth cause some of the following symptoms:

1.  Jaw pain on both sides (even the top jaw and not just in the joint)

2.  Tooth pain (even my front teeth ache right now)

3.  Ear stuffiness/ringing

I had a cleaning/Xrays in April and they said everything looked okay.  This just seems to flare every now and then.

What treatment options exist for TMJ?

Thank you.

[Jerome Bogin, D.D.S.]

The answer to all your questions is yes. I would consult a dentist that specializes in TMJ dysfunction.

[mike1105]

all these things can come from TMJ, which comes from clenchingin al large % of cases. the best treatment is to stop clenching. Other treatments include a niteguard/mouthguard. surgery or dental work to change the bite in more extreme cases. talk to your dentist.