Published on: 6/12/2025
Can TMJ disorders lead to facial tingling?
Yes, TMJ (temporomandibular joint) disorders can sometimes cause facial tingling due to nerve irritation or muscle tension around the jaw.
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Explanation
The temporomandibular joint connects your jawbone to your skull and helps with chewing and speaking. When this joint or the muscles around it are inflamed or strained (a condition called TMJ disorder), it can cause various symptoms including jaw pain, headaches, and sometimes tingling or numbness in the face.
Facial tingling in TMJ disorders is often caused by pressure on nearby nerves or muscle tension that affects nerve signals. Other symptoms may include jaw clicking, limited jaw movement, or soreness around the ear and face.
If you experience persistent facial tingling along with jaw pain or difficulty moving your jaw, it’s a good idea to see a healthcare provider or dentist who specializes in TMJ disorders for evaluation and treatment options.
(References)
- Applebaum EL, Berg LF, Kumar A, & Mafee MF. (1988). Otologic complications following temporomandibular joint .... The Annals of otology, rhinology, and laryngology, 3202572.
- Weinberg S, & Kryshtalskyj B. (1996). Analysis of facial and trigeminal nerve function after .... Journal of oral and maxillofacial surgery : official journal of the American Association of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons, 8530998.
- Miettinen O, Anttonen V, Patinen P, Päkkilä J, Tjäderhane L, & Sipilä K. (2017). Prevalence of Temporomandibular Disorder Symptoms .... Journal of oral & facial pain and headache, 28118418.
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