Jaw pain is abnormal.
Although it might seem normal to experience jaw pain daily, it’s important to understand that this is not typical. Persistent jaw discomfort could be a sign of Temporomandibular Disorder (TMD), which affects one or both of the Temporomandibular Joints (TMJs) in the lower jaw. These joints can become inflamed due to factors like misalignment or certain medical conditions, leading to pain and other related symptoms.
Some common indicators of TMJ disorder (TMD) include:
- Regular headaches
- Pain or sensitivity around the ear
- Discomfort or soreness in the face or jaw
- Tension or pain in the neck, shoulders, or upper back
- Persistent ear ringing
- Unusual noises, like clicking or grinding, when moving the jaw
- Trouble with chewing, yawning, or fully opening the mouth
If any of these symptoms sound familiar, it’s best to consult a professional for an evaluation to identify the cause and explore potential treatment options.
What are the diagnostic and treatment approaches for TMJ Disorder?
Diagnosis
To identify TMJ Disorder (TMD), we begin with a detailed clinical examination of your jaw, teeth, bite, joints, and facial structure. During this evaluation, we assess for any tenderness or pain and listen for clicking or popping sounds when you move your jaw, such as during actions like opening and closing your mouth, chewing, or swallowing. Once TMD is confirmed, the typical first step in treatment involves using a bite splint or night guard, which can help alleviate symptoms and provide relief.
Treatment and Relief
For treatment, we use custom-made bite splints, which are plastic mouthpieces designed to fit over your upper and/or lower teeth. These splints help prevent grinding and clenching, which are often major contributors to TMD symptoms. They also aid in realigning the jaw, reducing stress on the surrounding muscles and joints, and encouraging a more balanced bite.
Alternative Treatment Options
If issues such as a misaligned bite or missing teeth are contributing to your symptoms, we may recommend orthodontic treatments or restorative dental procedures to address these underlying concerns. These treatments aim to correct bite imbalances or replace lost teeth, reducing the impact on your temporomandibular joints. In cases where excessive pressure on the TMJs is an issue, reshaping certain teeth to better distribute biting forces may be suggested, helping to promote a more even and balanced bite.
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.
Frequently Asked Questions
TMJ stands for Temporomandibular Joint, the structure that connects the jawbone to the skull. When this joint becomes misaligned or inflamed, it leads to Temporomandibular Joint Disorder, also known as TMD.
Typical symptoms of Temporomandibular Joint Disorder (TMD) include discomfort and tenderness in or around the ear, jaw joint, and muscles of the face, jaw, or temples. You might also experience difficulty opening or closing your mouth, as well as sounds like clicking, popping, or grinding when chewing, yawning, or opening your mouth. TMD can also be linked to neck pain and headaches.
Temporomandibular Disorder (TMD) usually results from a mix of factors, such as jaw injuries, arthritis, and other joint diseases. Habits like grinding or clenching your teeth (bruxism), along with muscle tension in the head or neck, can worsen TMD symptoms. While stress may play a role, it’s unclear whether it’s a direct cause or a side effect of TMD. Poorly fitted dentures and habits like biting pens or nails can also contribute to TMD. With so many possible causes, a professional dental evaluation is recommended to accurately diagnose the issue.
Headaches can arise from a variety of sources, so it’s often necessary for a healthcare provider to perform a physical examination to determine whether TMD is the cause of your headaches.
In most cases, TMJ pain can be managed effectively without surgery. Surgical treatment for TMD is extremely rare and usually only considered under special circumstances. We are committed to providing you with clear information about all treatment options, focusing on the safest and most effective solutions, and ultimately respecting your decision about your care.
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