Do you have recurring eye pain? It may not be due to changes in your eyesight or issues with your eyeball. Instead, it might be caused by an underlying TMJ disorder. Your temporomandibular joints are located just by your ear on both sides of your face. If the joints don’t function correctly, it can cause facial pain, ringing in the ears, and orbital discomfort. Not to mention, you may have difficulty opening or closing your mouth. Here is how to determine if you need to see a dentist or an eye doctor.
Causes of Orbital Eye Pain
Orbital eye pain describes discomfort in the area behind or around an eye but doesn’t involve the eyeball. Often, dental and bite problems are the cause of orbital pain. The discomfort can also coincide with migraines, which can be triggered by dysfunction of the temporomandibular joints (TMJ). They are located on either side of your face, connecting your jaw to your skull.
What is a TMJ Disorder?
A TMJ disorder occurs when the joints don’t function correctly. It can be caused by various issues, like past injuries, a bad bite, or grinding and clenching your teeth. No matter the reason, it can make it difficult to chew or even yawn. Your jaw may lock in an open or closed position. You may hear or feel clicking or grating sensations. It’s not unusual to experience facial pain, headaches, and many other issues from inflammation within the joints.
TMJ Disorders and Eye Pain
TMJ disorders are linked to eye pain in many ways, including:
- Nerves: Believe it or not, your jawbone is connected to your eyes. There are 3 nerve branches that run from the upper jaw, lower jaw, and the eye area. They transmit pain from one area to another through the trigeminal nerve, which is in the brain. Jaw inflammation or pain can trigger eye discomfort.
- Bite Issues: Your upper and lower teeth should rest in harmony. Unfortunately, if they don’t come together correctly, it can put uneven pressure on your temporomandibular joints.
- Bruxism: The subconscious habit of grinding and clenching teeth not only causes dental problems but it’s also connected to TMJ disorders from friction and pressure.
Stop Your TMJ and Eye Pain
You can stop your eye and jaw pain with TMJ therapy. Every situation is unique, so there’s no one-size-fits-all solution. Depending on the underlying cause, you may benefit from braces, a mouthguard, or another treatment. Your dentist will create the personalized plan you need to improve your jaw functions and restore your quality of life.
About Dr. Stephanie Gorczyca
Dr. Gorczyca achieved her dental degree from the UCLA School of Dentistry and has pursued continuing education regularly to provide many specialty services, including TMJ therapy. She holds memberships with several professional organizations, including the American Dental Association. Request an appointment online or call (702) 602-4000.