Jaw Pain is Not Normal
Experiencing jaw pain on a daily basis may feel normal, but it’s not something to ignore. This pain can be a symptom of TMD, or Temporomandibular Disorder, which affects the TMJs—the joints connecting your lower jaw to your skull. When these joints are misaligned or affected by disease, inflammation occurs, causing the pain and other related symptoms. Understanding this can help you seek appropriate treatment and relief.
- Headaches
- Earaches and tenderness around the ear
- Face or jaw pain and tenderness
- Muscle pain in the neck, shoulders, and upper back
- Ringing in the ears
- Clicking, popping, or grinding sounds in the jaw
- Difficulty chewing, yawning, or opening your mouth
What are the Signs of TMJ Disorder (TMD)?
These symptoms can indicate TMD, affecting the function and comfort of your jaw joints and surrounding muscles. If you experience any of these signs, it may be time to consult a professional for an evaluation and appropriate treatment.
How Do We Diagnose and Treat TMJ Disorder?
Diagnosis
Diagnosing TMD starts with a thorough clinical examination, where we assess your face, jaw, bite, joints, and teeth. During this examination, we check for pain and tenderness and listen for any clicking or popping sounds when you open and close your mouth, swallow, or chew. If we diagnose TMD, we often recommend a bite splint or night guard as the initial treatment.
Treatment and Relief
For treating TMD, we use bite splints, custom-made plastic mouthpieces that fit over your upper and/or lower teeth. These devices prevent grinding and clenching, common contributors to TMD. The splints also help realign your jaw, reducing stress on the TMJ and surrounding areas, providing relief from symptoms.
Alternative Treatment Options
If your symptoms are due to a misaligned bite or missing teeth, we might recommend orthodontics or restorative dental work. For cases where your bite is putting excessive pressure on the TMJs, we may suggest reshaping specific teeth to evenly distribute the bite force.
Contact us today
to schedule an initial consultation & exam.
Your consultation will include an examination of everything from your teeth, gums and soft tissues to the shape and condition of your bite. Generally, we want to see how your whole mouth looks and functions. Before we plan your treatment we want to know everything about the health and aesthetic of your smile, and, most importantly, what you want to achieve so we can help you get there.
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Frequently Asked Questions
The Temporomandibular Joint, or TMJ, is the hinge that links your jaw to your skull. When this joint becomes inflamed or misaligned, it leads to a condition known as Temporomandibular Disorder, or TMD.
TMD can manifest through several signs, such as tenderness and pain near the ear, in the jaw joint, or in the muscles of the face, jaw, or temples. You might notice difficulties in opening or closing your mouth, and sounds like clicking, popping, crunching, or grinding when you chew, yawn, or move your mouth. Neck pain and headaches are also commonly linked to TMD.
TMD can stem from a variety of factors, including jaw injuries and joint conditions like arthritis. Habits such as grinding or clenching your teeth (known as bruxism) and muscle tension in the head or neck can aggravate TMD symptoms. Stress is another potential contributor, although it’s not clear if it causes TMD or results from it. Ill-fitting dentures and behaviors like nail biting or chewing on pens can also lead to TMD. Due to the wide range of potential causes, diagnosing TMD can be complex. If you’re experiencing jaw pain, it’s best to schedule an appointment for a thorough evaluation.
Headaches can arise from numerous sources, and determining the exact cause requires a physical examination. While TMD can be a contributing factor to headaches, only a thorough evaluation by a healthcare professional can identify the root cause of your discomfort.
Treating TMJ pain typically involves non-invasive methods and therapies, which are often very effective. Surgery is rarely needed and is only considered in severe cases. Your well-being is our top priority, and we will always start with the safest and simplest treatment options. Ultimately, you will have the final say in deciding your treatment plan, ensuring your health and happiness are at the forefront.
Preventing TMJ disorders involves adopting good habits such as avoiding excessive chewing or clenching, practicing good posture, managing stress effectively, and avoiding habits like nail biting or chewing on pens. Regular dental check-ups can also help in identifying and addressing potential issues early.
If you suspect you have TMD, it’s important to schedule an appointment with a dental or healthcare professional. They can conduct a thorough examination, provide a proper diagnosis, and recommend appropriate treatment options tailored to your specific needs. Early intervention can help manage symptoms and prevent the condition from worsening.
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