When you hear the term “TMJ disorder”, what comes to mind? Many people think of the more obvious symptoms, such as chronic jaw pain. However, some consequences of the condition aren’t quite as well known. For example, in particularly serious cases, TMJ disorder can affect the way you talk! Here’s a closer look at how TMJ disorder and speech impairments can potentially be linked.
What is TMJ Disorder?
TMJ disorder refers to a problem with your temporomandibular joints (TMJs for short). These joints are located on either side of your face and help keep the lower jaw connected to the skull. If the TMJs are injured or exposed to excessive amounts of strain, the result is a TMJ disorder. The condition often causes significant pain, and it can lead to limited movement or periodic locking of the jaw.
How Can TMJ Disorder Lead to Speech Problems?
Depending on the underlying cause and severity of your TMJ disorder, it could potentially affect your speech in the following ways:
- If you are having trouble moving your jaw, you may find it more difficult to enunciate properly, thus making it more difficult to speak clearly.
- The pain associated with a TMJ disorder can lead to discomfort when you try to speak. This may cause you to change the way you talk to keep pain to a minimum.
- Limited mobility of the jaw can potentially affect the volume of your speech, meaning you may have trouble speaking up enough so that others can easily hear you.
- If there’s a problem with the muscles around your jaw joints, you may start slurring your speech.
What Can You Do About TMJ Disorder and Speech Problems?
First of all, you will want to have your TMJ disorder diagnosed so that your dentist can figure out the best way to treat it. Sometimes this may involve wearing an occlusal splint that helps shift the alignment of your jaw to decrease pressure on the TMJs. In other cases, you may undergo a process called equilibration, which is when the teeth are slightly adjusted to ensure that they come together correctly and properly distribute the forces of chewing.
In addition to pursuing treatment for your TMJ disorder, you should also consider reaching out to a speech therapist. They can help you figure out the best way to overcome any speech difficulties that you have been dealing with as a result of your TMJ-related issues.
You don’t need to force yourself to live with the consequences of a TMJ disorder. If you are proactive about seeking the care you need, you can soothe your jaw pain while also moving past speech impairments and other difficulties.
About the Author
Dr. Rashpal Deol initially practiced dentistry in India before eventually moving to the United States. He is a member of the American Academy of Craniofacial Pain, and he is able to offer a variety of treatment options for patients who are struggling with TMJ disorders. To schedule a consultation with Dr. Deol at Oak Ridge Dental in San Ramon, visit his website or call (925) 735-6190.
