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TMJ problem, lump?
Answered by
Michael H Kirsch, DDS - Oral Surgery, Maxillofacial, Wisdom Teeth, Bone Grafting, dental implants
Dr. Michael H. Kirsch Caldwell - NJ
Questions in the Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery forum are answered by Dr. Michael H Kirsch. Topics covered include teeth extractions, wisdom teeth, dental implants, bone grafting, orthognathic surgery, facial bones realignment, facial trauma repair, jaw alignment, anesthesia, jaw cyst or tumor diagnosis, reconstructive jaw surgery, temporomandibular joint syndrome (TMJ) and TMJ surgery.

TMJ problem, lump?

by Nick19904, Jun 01, 2008 04:35PM
Hi, Im 18 years old and Ive had TMJ for a little while now, at first my jaw would just click and stop, and then pop out and back in, then started getting stuck to where I couldnt open it wide for a few weeks. Now I can eat fine with moderate pain and my jaw clicks constantly. About a year ago not even, I noticed a small lump even a bit smaller than a pea in my ear/jaw location. When the jaw is closed it resides below the ear, and when I open my jaw it moves over the jaw bone right infront of the ear. I can move it around a little bit, and it is not painfull and hasnt grown at all, just becomes a little swollen if I play with it to much. Ive gone to my primary doctor, dentist, and oral surgeon which all say its nothing to worry about, its a muscle or gland? My oral however said it was a muscle that has become out of whack or something? Its been a few months since I've been to the doctor about it and its still present, paranoia has gotten the best of me, and Im still concerned if I'm alrite? Thank you

by Michael H Kirsch, DDS, Jun 01, 2008 09:13PM
Your concern is valid.  However, it is impossible for me to tell you what is going on without a complete exam.  A lump over the TMJ is not normal as you described it.

You should be examined by a Board Certified Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeon or ENT Surgeon.  It may be related to a TMJ condition, lymph node, cyst, tumor or infection.

In any case, a definitive diagnosis should be made and treatment initiated promptly.

Information contained within this reply is intended solely for general educational purposes and is not intended nor implied to be a medical diagnosis or treatment recommendation.  This is not a substitute for professional medical advice relative to your specific medical condition or question. Always seek the advice of your own doctor for medical condition. Only your doctor can provide specific diagnoses and therapies.
Member Comments (3)

by Nick19904, Jun 02, 2008 12:35PM
My doctor said it was a cyst I will probably live with the rest of my life, and I don't need to get it taken out.

by Michael H Kirsch, DDS, Jun 02, 2008 06:00PM
If you are not satisfied with their response you are certainly entitled to a second opinion.  I suggest you get one.
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