Is It Jaw Pain That Is Affecting Your Speech?

Each day, you discover that it becomes more and more difficult to try and perform normal tasks. Opening your mouth to brush your teeth and eat causes significant pain. But now, you are noticing that it is now increasingly difficult to speak. Is it possible that TMJ disorder is causing your speech problems? The only way to find out is to seek the help of a professional. Read on to find out how the inner workings of your jaw might be hindering your ability to speak clearly and what a specialist can do for you.

How Can TMJ Disorder Hinder Your Ability to Speak?

The temporomandibular joints (TMJs) are connected to the base of your skull and allow for proper movement when eating, speaking, yawning, laughing, and more. When these become inflamed or damaged, significant pain can occur.

Their inability to move correctly can take its toll, especially when it comes to your speech quality. If you think about the movement of your jaw when you speak, it’s constant. You’re continuing to open and close your mouth, making sounds and tightening muscles to make certain words.

If these joints and your teeth are negatively impacted in any way, you will find that you may slur your speech or mumble, making it a challenge when surrounded by others.

If the TMJs become too stiff or locked at any point, you’ll be faced with the inability to speak, which can cause a bit of panic among those who have never experienced such a problem.

How Can a Doctor Help Improve the Situation?

Living with intense jaw pain and incorrect joint movement can become debilitating if left untreated. Affecting more than just your speech, you’ll notice a significant change in your diet and desire to spend time with others.

This is why seeking professional help is essential. The first step you’ll want to take is to schedule a consultation to discuss your concerns and desired goals. After undergoing more thorough testing and examination, your TMJ dentist will determine how best to address your particular problem.

Some of the most common methods of treatment include:

• A TMJ splint that is customized to fit your mouth and serves to reduce your chances of lockjaw or additional pain
• Stretching exercises to help reduce symptoms associated with TMJ (i.e., clicking, popping, intense discomfort, etc.)
• Anti-inflammatory medications
• BOTOX injections
• Occlusal adjustment
• Repositioning of a disc within the jaw

Don’t let TMJ disorder keep you from talking to others anymore! Pursuing TMJ therapy will not only help to minimize and even eliminate symptoms but also improve your quality of life.

About the Author
As a board-certified nurse practitioner, general dentist, and dental sleep medicine practitioner, Dr. Shelley Shults aims to help patients avoid serious jaw pain. With proven techniques and treatments, she and her team at Powell Dental Sleep Solutions can reduce discomfort, realign bites, and ensure proper oral and overall health for the future. If you are dealing with chronic TMJ pain, contact us at (614) 396-9310.