Since the temporomandibular joint (TMJ) is one of the busiest nerve centers in the body, it can affect your performance even if you don’t have the jaw pain or chewing difficulty that are among the most common symptoms. You may suddenly hear a ringing in your ears that won’t go away. You may have migraines. TMJ works a lot on the principle of referred pain, so your tinnitus symptoms or headaches could easily be pain that’s outsourced from the jaw.
Many people report an inability to concentrate on their daily routine. This is because TMJ can arise from a combination of social and psychological factors that put people more at risk for chronic pain.
Your doctor may prescribe antidepressants as part of your TMJ treatment, if you are not already on them. Often, rest or at-home treatments like hot and cold massage or stretching exercises can alleviate symptoms.