A lot of people with health issues do not get medical treatment until their condition has worsened. While you can save money and time by pushing off TMJ treatment in Los Gatos, you can suffer from the resulting pain and other consequences. TMJ disorder is not different. When not treated promptly, the disorder can cause painful symptoms, reduced quality of life, and other medical issues. Read on to know the effects of TMJ disorder (TMD) is treated right away:

Chronic Jaw Pain

If TMD is not treated on time, you can suffer from chronic pain in the jaw. As the disorder goes untreated, the pain can get worse. The pain can transform from being just occasional pain to constant pain. 

Joint Damage and Inflammation

Not addressing your TMD means not allowing the joint to heal. As a result, the condition will only worsen. 

Recurring Headaches and Migraines

If you have untreated TMD, there is a good chance you experience headaches when you wake up. This can happen since your TMJ connects your jawbone and your skull. When your TMJ is inflamed, such information can impact the adjacent muscles, causing headaches.  

Sleep Disorders

Usually, a TMJ disorder is caused by a misaligned bite, which can also negatively impact your sleep. A misaligned jaw means the jaw is not in its proper position, possibly obstructing your airway. As a result, you can suffer from obstructive sleep apnea, which makes it hard for you to get enough oxygen at night.  Because of this, you will not get a good night’s sleep. And during the day, you will be fatigued and experience brain fog. 

Reduced Quality of Life

When not treated as soon as possible, TMD can lead to different painful symptoms that can significantly affect your quality of life. Frequent headaches and pain can result in you missing time off work. In addition, you may not be able to enjoy your favorite foods because of jaw pain. If TMD is reducing your quality of life, ensure you see a dentist to get appropriate treatment. 

Dental Health Issues

Often, TMD occurs alongside teeth clenching and grinding. If you do not get treatment for your TMJ issue, you will continue the clenching and grinding habit. Eventually, this habit can wear your teeth down and cause fractures or cracks. Because of this, your gums may recede, requiring serious restorative dentistry for restoring the form and function of your teeth.