Plagued by Jaw Pain? It Could Be TMJ

Jaw pain affects millions of people due to teeth grinding or jaw clenching. However, if the problem lasts for several weeks or longer, you may have a temporomandibular joint disorder, or TMJ.

The good news is that TMJ is manageable, but prompt treatment is essential. Waiting too long can lead to lasting joint issues, increasing the risks of chronic pain and headaches. 

At SolidSMILES Dental in Lewisville, Texas, Family and cosmetic dentist Hiral Patel, DDS, specializes in TMJ-related care. Here, she explains what TMJ is, highlights common symptoms, and discusses what to expect during treatment.

What is TMJ?

Temporomandibular joint disorder, also known as TMJ, occurs when the temporomandibular joints, which connect the jaw to the skull, become misaligned or inflamed, often due to strain, injury, or teeth grinding. 

This misalignment issue isn’t as noticeable as a dislocated shoulder, but without prompt treatment, it can cause inflammation and chronic jaw pain, making it difficult to eat and speak comfortably. 

Common symptoms of TMJ

TMJ affects everyone differently, and symptoms can range from mild to severe. However, telltale signs include:

• Jaw pain or tenderness lasting more than a few weeks
• Difficulty chewing or pain when chewing
• Clicking, popping, or locking of the jaw
• Facial discomfort or stiffness

Some patients experience frequent headaches or ear pain that seems unrelated. This is called referred pain. Because the temporomandibular joints share some of the same nerve pathways as the ears and head, the brain can interpret TMJ-related pain as coming from other areas. 

When to see a dentist about jaw pain

Contact Dr. Patel if you have persistent or worsening jaw pain that doesn’t improve with rest or over-the-counter (OTC) pain medication. That’s especially important if the pain occurs alongside other concerning symptoms, such as severe headaches or jaw locking that interferes with your ability to eat and speak. 

Seek immediate care if you get hit in the mouth or experience another traumatic injury that results in jaw dysfunction. If a broken jaw doesn’t heal properly, it may increase the risk of TMJ.  

How is TMJ diagnosed?

To diagnose TMJ, Dr. Patel reviews your dental records, asks about your symptoms, and completes an exam. She assesses how your jaw moves when you open your mouth, and listens carefully for clicking or popping sounds. She also gently presses on your jaw to check for swelling or tender areas.

Finally, Dr. Patel takes dental X-rays. She may also refer you for additional imaging, such as a CT scan or MRI, to assess jaw alignment and evaluate temporomandibular joint inflammation. 

TMJ treatment: What to expect

TMJ treatment depends on your symptoms and their severity. Dr. Patel may recommend:

• Lifestyle adjustments, such as stress management to prevent jaw clenching, or avoiding chewy foods to reduce irritation
• Physical therapy, featuring  targeted jaw exercises and stretches
• Wearing a night guard to prevent teeth grinding
• Taking over-the-counter pain medication to reduce inflammation and discomfort

Many patients respond well to a combination of conservative treatments. However, if your symptoms persist or worsen, surgical intervention may be needed in rare cases to restore joint function and mobility.

We can help you safely manage TMJ pain

If you’re struggling to perform daily activities, such as chewing and yawning, due to chronic jaw pain, don’t wait to schedule a TMJ screening. To make an appointment, call SolidSMILES Dental today or book your visit online.