TMJ disorder self-test: Recognize signs

Answer the following questions. If you answer "yes" to many of these questions, it may be advisable to consult a dentist or TMJ disorder specialist for a thorough examination.

Jaw and facial pain

  • Do you have pain in your jaw or jaw joints, especially when chewing or speaking? (Yes/No)
  • Do you feel pain or tension in your facial area, for example, in your cheeks or temples? (Yes/No)
  • Does this pain also occur at rest or at night? (Yes/No)


Noises and movements of the jaw

  • Do you hear a cracking, grinding, or rubbing sound in your jaw when you open or close your mouth? (Yes/No)
  • Do you find it difficult to fully open or close your mouth? (Yes/No)
  • Does your jaw sometimes feel locked or stuck? (Yes/No)


Head, neck and shoulder pain

  • Do you often have headaches, especially in the forehead, temples, or back of the head? (Yes/No)
  • Do you suffer from neck tension or neck pain? (Yes/No)
  • Does this pain sometimes radiate to the shoulders or back? (Yes/No)

Ear symptoms

  • Do you regularly experience earaches without any identifiable cause (such as inflammation)? (Yes/No)
  • Do you suffer from tinnitus (a ringing or buzzing noise in your ears)? (Yes/No)
  • Do you sometimes experience dizziness or balance problems? (Yes/No)


Teeth grinding and clenching

  • Do you grind your teeth at night, or has anyone told you to do so? (Yes/No)
  • Do you often unconsciously clench your teeth during the day? (Yes/No)
  • Do you feel tired or have muscle tension in your jaw when you wake up in the morning? (Yes/No)


Other non-specific symptoms

  • Do you often feel tired or exhausted, especially in the morning? (Yes/No)
  • Do you experience pain or burning in the eye area or notice blurred vision? (Yes/No)
  • Do you have tension or pain in your lower back or other areas that worsen with stress? (Yes/No)

Evaluation

 0-3x "Yes": There is no obvious indication of TMJ disorder. However, if symptoms occur that bother you, it is advisable to discuss them with a doctor or dentist.

 4-8x "Yes": You have some possible signs of TMJ disorder. It might be helpful to get a more thorough examination, especially if the symptoms are limiting your daily life.

 9 or more "yes": Your answers indicate multiple signs of TMJ disorder. A professional evaluation by a dentist or TMJ disorder specialist is recommended.

This test serves as a guide. Only a specialist can make an accurate diagnosis and develop an individualized treatment plan.