TMJ Management
What Are the TMJs?
You have two temporomandibular joints, one on each side of your face, located just in front of your ears.
These joints allow your lower jaw to move in several directions, making it possible to:
- Open and close your mouth
- Chew
- Speak
- Yawn
- Move your jaw from side to side
The joints work together with a group of muscles, ligaments, and other structures to control jaw movement.
When one or more of these structures isn’t functioning properly, symptoms may develop.
What Are TMJ Disorders?
TMJ disorders can involve the jaw joints, surrounding muscles, or both.
There isn’t always one specific cause. Symptoms can sometimes be associated with:
- Teeth grinding or clenching
- Jaw injury or trauma
- Muscle tension
- Changes in the bite
- Arthritis or joint inflammation
- Stress
- Problems involving the jaw joint itself
In some cases, several factors may contribute to symptoms.
Common TMJ Symptoms
TMJ problems can cause symptoms that affect more than just the jaw.
Possible signs include:
- Jaw pain or tenderness
- Pain around the ears or temples
- Clicking or popping when opening or closing your mouth
- Difficulty opening your mouth fully
- Jaw stiffness
- A jaw that occasionally locks
- Pain when chewing
- Facial muscle tenderness
- Headaches
- Ear-related discomfort
- Changes in the way your teeth come together
Not every clicking or popping sound indicates a serious problem. However, clicking accompanied by pain, restricted movement, or locking should be evaluated.
Teeth Grinding & Clenching
Clenching and grinding, also called bruxism, can place additional stress on the jaw muscles and joints.
Some people grind their teeth while sleeping without realizing it. Others may clench their teeth during periods of concentration or stress.
Possible signs of grinding or clenching include:
- Worn or flattened teeth
- Increased tooth sensitivity
- Jaw soreness
- Morning headaches
- Muscle tenderness
- Chipped or fractured teeth
- Increased tension around the jaw
If you suspect that you clench or grind your teeth, let your dental team know.
How Are TMJ Problems Diagnosed?
Diagnosing TMJ problems begins with a thorough evaluation.
Your dentist may:
- Ask about your symptoms
- Examine your jaw joints
- Evaluate your jaw movement
- Check the surrounding muscles
- Look for signs of tooth wear
- Evaluate your bite
- Review your dental and medical history
- Recommend imaging when appropriate
The goal is to determine what may be contributing to your symptoms and whether additional evaluation or treatment is needed.
TMJ Management Options
Treatment depends on the cause and severity of your symptoms.
In many cases, the initial approach is conservative and focuses on reducing stress on the jaw.
Resting the Jaw
Avoid excessive chewing and activities that place unnecessary strain on the jaw.
This may include temporarily limiting:
- Chewing gum
- Very hard foods
- Tough or chewy foods
- Excessive yawning
- Habits that keep the jaw tense
- Heat & Cold
Depending on your symptoms, applying a warm or cold compress to the jaw area may help reduce muscle discomfort.
Your dental team can provide guidance on which approach may be most appropriate.
Stress Management
Stress can contribute to jaw clenching and muscle tension.
Relaxation techniques, awareness of jaw tension, and other stress-management strategies may help reduce symptoms for some patients.
Bite Guards
For patients who clench or grind their teeth, a professionally designed night guard or occlusal appliance may help protect the teeth and reduce the effects of nighttime grinding.
Your dentist can determine whether an oral appliance is appropriate for you.
Medication
Depending on your symptoms and medical history, your dentist or physician may recommend medication to help manage pain or inflammation.
Always discuss medications with your healthcare provider to ensure they are appropriate for you.
When Should You See a Dentist?
Occasional jaw clicking without pain may not require treatment. However, you should have your jaw evaluated if you experience:
- Persistent jaw pain
- Difficulty opening or closing your mouth
- Jaw locking
- Pain while chewing
- Frequent headaches associated with jaw tension
- Significant tooth wear
- Increasing clicking or popping accompanied by discomfort
Early evaluation can help identify contributing factors and determine whether treatment is appropriate.
Protect Your Jaw Health
Small changes in daily habits can sometimes help reduce stress on your jaw.
Consider:
- Avoiding gum chewing
- Choosing softer foods when your jaw is uncomfortable
- Keeping your teeth slightly apart when your jaw is at rest
- Being aware of daytime clenching
- Avoiding biting your nails or other objects
- Managing stress
- Following your dentist’s recommendations
Personalized TMJ Care
TMJ symptoms can have different causes, so there isn’t one treatment that works for everyone.
At Scarborough Village Dental Care, we’ll evaluate your symptoms, examine your jaw and teeth, and discuss appropriate management options based on your individual situation.
Meet Our Dental Team
Our Locations
Scarborough Village Dental Care
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Working Hours
- Monday: 9 AM - 7 PM Tuesday: 9 AM - 7 PMWednesday: 9 AM - 7 PMThursday: 9 AM - 6 PM Friday: 9 AM - 3 PM Saturday: 9 AM - 2 PM
Cliffcrest Family Dental
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Working Hours
- Monday: 8 AM - 8 PM Tuesday: 8 AM - 8 PMWednesday: 8 AM - 8 PMThursday: 8 AM - 8 PM Friday: 8 AM - 4 PM Saturday: 9 AM - 2 PM