Tmj Syndrome And Lockjaw

Although TMJ (temporomandibular joint) syndrome and lockjaw are two very different conditions, both can cause pain in the jaw, and one may actually be a result of the other. While you should see a doctor for either condition, it’s important to know the symptoms to distinguish among these two medical problems. Here, Gregory T. Grubba DDS of Anchorage, AK, explains what to look for.

Symptoms of TMJ Syndrome: While jaw pain or stiffness could be signs of either TMJ or lockjaw, many patients with TMJ also experience other jaw-related symptoms, such as popping or clicking sounds. You may also experience headaches or ear pain with TMJ (source: MedicineNet).
Symptoms of Lockjaw: Lockjaw, or tetanus, is a bacterial disease for which most people are