Name a symptom of temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders.

Jaw pain or clicking sounds when opening or closing the mouth is a well-recognized symptom of temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders. TMJ disorders can arise from various issues affecting the joint itself or the muscles controlling jaw movement. When the TMJ is not functioning properly, it can lead to discomfort and auditory signs, such as clicking or popping noises during movement. This symptom is a direct indication that the movement of the joint is impaired, which is a hallmark characteristic of TMJ dysfunction.

Other symptoms mentioned, such as persistent headaches, can sometimes be related to TMJ disorders. However, they are not specific symptoms of the joint issues. Similarly, swelling of the gums and difficulty swallowing are more indicative of dental or oral health issues rather than being direct symptoms of TMJ disorders. Thus, the presence of jaw pain and the associated clicking sounds are the primary signs that lead healthcare providers to suspect a TMJ issue.