Understanding Jaw Pain and TMJ Issues: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment

Pain and discomfort in your temporomandibular joint (TMJ) and jaw can rapidly impact your quality of life. The intricate joint linking your jawbone to your skull is used for speaking, chewing, and facial movement. When your TMJ is not functioning, it can result in a condition referred to as TMJ disorder (TMD). At The Dental Cure, we specialize in early detection and effective treatment to regain comfort and function.

What is TMJ, and Why Does It Hurt?

The temporomandibular joint, or TMJ, is a sliding hinge that connects your jawbone and skull. When the covering muscles or joints get displaced, strained, or inflamed, it may result in chronic jaw pain.

The usual causes of TMJ problems are:

Trauma or injury to the jaw
Teeth grinding (bruxism)
Arthritis
Stress clenching
Poor bite
Dislocation of the disc in the joint

TMJ disorders are typically multifactorial in etiology, and individual causes can only be established through professional assessment.

Symptoms of TMJ Disorders

Symptoms of TMJ disorder can vary from mild pain to incapacitating pain. Early symptoms are usually overlooked or mistaken for other dental or auditory ailments.

Symptoms are:

Ache or sensitivity in the jaw joint
Clicking, popping, or grinding on opening or closing of the mouth
Restriction of jaw motion or jaw locking
Pain in the region around the ears, neck, or shoulders
Headache or facial discomfort
Trouble chewing or change in bite

If any of these symptoms are ongoing, seeing a dental professional is important.

Diagnosing TMJ Disorders at The Dental Cure

At The Dental Cure, our experienced dental staff diagnoses TMJ disorders with physical exams and advanced imaging. This may include evaluating the range of motion of your jaw, auscultation to detect catching or clicking of the joint, and using X-rays or 3D images to see the joint well.

Prompt detection is essential to stop the advancement of the condition and to obtain a personalized treatment plan designed especially for you.

Treatment of TMJ Disorders and Jaw Pain

TMJ disorders can be treated in the majority of cases by non-surgical and conservative therapy. Patient-specific treatment and individualized treatment protocols are adopted by us at The Dental Cure.

Treatment includes:

Nightguards or oral splints for grinding relief and jaw pressure
Physical therapy and exercises for the jaw for increased mobility and reduced stiffness
Adjustment of diet, posture improvement, and stress management
Muscle relaxation or anti-inflammatory drugs

Specialized intervention such as injection of Botox or referring the patient to be operated upon in extreme cases

We individually treat every patient to decide the best method to relief and recovery.

Make An Appointment Today

Let jaw pain no longer interfere with your life. If you are suffering from jaw pain and TMJ issues, come to The Dental Cure for expert treatment and compassionate care. We want to help you smile, speak, and chew comfortably once again.