What Is TMJ Disorder?
The temporomandibular joints are the two joints that connect your jaw to your skull, one on each side, just in front of your ears. When these joints or the muscles around them aren’t working smoothly, the result is often grouped under the term TMD, for temporomandibular disorder, though many people call it TMJ after the joint itself.
TMD can cause a range of symptoms, and because those symptoms overlap with other conditions, it’s worth having them assessed rather than guessed at.
Signs You May Have a TMJ or Jaw Problem
Consider booking an assessment if you regularly experience any of the following:
- Pain or tenderness in the jaw, face, or around the ears
- Clicking, popping, or grating sounds when you open or close your mouth
- Difficulty or discomfort opening your mouth fully
- A jaw that feels like it locks or catches
- Frequent tension headaches
- Aching facial muscles, especially in the morning
- Worn, flattened, or sensitive teeth from grinding
These symptoms have several possible causes, so an assessment is the first step toward understanding what’s happening and what might help.
What Is Bruxism?
Bruxism is the clenching or grinding of teeth, often during sleep, and many people don’t realize they do it. Over time it can wear down teeth, cause jaw muscle pain, and contribute to headaches.
Because grinding frequently happens at night, a partner noticing the sound or a dentist spotting the wear pattern is often how it’s first identified. The good news is that it’s manageable once recognized.
How We Can Help
Custom Night Guards
We examine the tooth and take X-rays to confirm the diagnosis and understand the shape of the roots. We'll explain what we find and what the treatment involves.
Therapeutic Muscle-Relaxing Injections
For some patients, therapeutic injections can help relax overactive jaw muscles that contribute to clenching, grinding, and associated discomfort. This approach is used selectively, as part of a wider assessment, and we'll discuss whether it's appropriate for your situation, along with what to expect.
Bite Assessment and Guidance
Sometimes jaw discomfort relates to how your teeth meet. As part of your assessment we'll look at your bite and the wear on your teeth, and talk through practical steps that may help, from habit awareness to protective appliances.
What to Expect at Your Assessment
We start by talking through your symptoms and history, then examine your jaw, muscles, bite, and teeth for signs of strain or wear. TMD and bruxism can have more than one contributing factor, so our aim is to understand what’s driving your symptoms before recommending anything.
From there, we’ll explain what we’ve found and go through suitable options. Many patients start with a conservative approach, such as a night guard, and we build from there based on how you respond.
When to Seek Help Sooner
Occasional jaw discomfort is common and often settles on its own. It’s worth booking an assessment if your symptoms are persistent, getting worse, interfering with eating or sleeping, or accompanied by frequent headaches. Early attention often makes these problems easier to manage.
If you experience sudden, severe jaw pain, significant swelling, or difficulty opening or closing your mouth, contact us promptly.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can a dentist treat TMJ problems?
Yes. Dentists commonly assess and help manage TMD and bruxism, particularly where the jaw joints, muscles, bite, and teeth are involved. We’ll assess your symptoms and recommend suitable options, and refer you on if something falls outside dental care.
How do I know if I grind my teeth?
Many people grind their teeth in their sleep without knowing. Common signs include worn or sensitive teeth, jaw soreness in the morning, tension headaches, or a partner hearing grinding at night. We can also spot the wear pattern during an exam.
Will a night guard stop my jaw pain?
A night guard protects your teeth from grinding and can ease muscle strain, which helps many people. Because jaw pain has different causes, results vary, and we’ll assess your situation to recommend the most suitable approach.
Are therapeutic injections right for me?
Therapeutic injections are used selectively for certain muscle-related jaw concerns, as part of a fuller assessment. Whether they’re appropriate depends on your specific situation, which we’ll discuss with you.
Is TMJ treatment covered by insurance?
Coverage varies by plan and treatment. Some appliances such as night guards may be partially covered. We offer direct billing to most providers and can help you check your benefits.
Should I be worried about occasional jaw clicking?
Occasional painless clicking is common and often nothing to worry about. It’s worth having it assessed if it’s frequent, painful, or accompanied by other symptoms like locking or difficulty opening your mouth.
Find Relief From Jaw Pain and Grinding
If jaw discomfort, clenching, or grinding is affecting your days or your sleep, we can help you understand what’s going on. Request an appointment at Shaughnessy Square Dental Centre, Monday through Saturday.