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Warning-sign checks

TMJ disorders: when to get help

Go through these in order and stop at the first one that applies. If you are reading this for someone else, answer for them.

  1. 1

    Is any of this happening now?

    Call 911

    Call emergency services if facial or mouth swelling makes it difficult to breathe or swallow.

    Major facial trauma, heavy bleeding, confusion, or loss of consciousness also needs emergency care.

    Call emergency services for new jaw pain with chest pressure, shortness of breath, sweating, nausea, faintness, or pain spreading into the arm, shoulder, or back.

    Other emergency signs, for anyone
    • Someone who is struggling to breathe, gasping, choking, or cannot get words out
    • Someone who has chest pain, tightness or pressure lasting more than a few minutes
    • Someone who has sudden weakness or drooping on one side of the face or body, slurred speech, or sudden confusion
    • Someone who is unconscious, or cannot be woken
    • Someone who is bleeding heavily and it will not stop with firm pressure
    • Someone who has had a seizure that will not stop, or does not wake up afterwards
    • Someone who has lips or skin that look pale, blue, grey or blotchy
    • Someone who you believe has taken an overdose or swallowed something poisonous
  2. 2

    Is any of this happening?

    Be seen today

    Seek urgent medical or dental care if:

    • Your jaw becomes stuck open or closed
    • You cannot drink or manage saliva because movement is restricted
    • You have facial swelling, fever, or worsening dental pain
    • Symptoms began after a significant blow or other facial injury
    • Your bite suddenly changes after an injury
  3. 3

    Does any of this apply?

    Book an appointment

    Arrange a routine dental or medical assessment if jaw pain keeps returning, does not settle, limits eating, or comes with repeated locking.

    You should also be assessed for a new bite change, persistent swelling, unexplained weight loss, or numbness in the face.

The article also says

Jaw discomfort can rarely be referred pain from the heart.

Every sign above is quoted from the sofidex article on TMJ disorders. If you are not sure, err upward — it is always reasonable to be checked.