TMJ Disorders

Jaw pain can affect your daily life, from eating to speaking or simply getting through the day. If you’re dealing with pain, clicking sounds or stiffness in your jaw, you may have a problem with the temporomandibular joint (TMJ). 

Temporomandibular disorder (TMD) affects the jaw joints and muscles. Learn more about TMDs, their causes, signs and the steps you can take to manage them. 

What is temporomandibular disorder?

Temporomandibular disorder (TMD) refers to problems in and around the jaw joints. It is a group of conditions that affect how your jaw works. It may also be called TMJ disorder, TMJ dysfunction or TM problems. 

The temporomandibular joint (TMJ) is located on both sides of your face, just in front of your ears. It acts like a sliding hinge, allowing you to move your jaw up and down and side to side. You use your TMJ every time you eat, speak or yawn.

When this joint doesn’t work as it should, it can cause pain, stiffness and other problems. TMD can involve the joint itself, the chewing muscles or both. 

According to the National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research (NIDCR), TMD is one of the most common causes of jaw pain. Millions of people in the U.S. are affected by this condition. Symptoms can range from mild discomfort to severe pain that affects daily life. 

What causes temporomandibular disorder?

There are many possible causes of TMD. Often, it is hard to know the exact reason. Some common causes include:

• Jaw injury: Trauma to the jaw, such as a fall, car accident or sports injury, can damage the joint or muscles that control jaw movement. 
• Habits: Chewing on gum or ice and nail biting can strain the joint and muscles.
• Teeth grinding: Clenching or grinding your teeth can strain the joint.
• Arthritis: Osteoarthritis or rheumatoid arthritis may affect the TMJ.
• Stress: Stress can lead to jaw clenching, which may cause TMD.
• Misaligned teeth: A bad bite can put pressure on the joint. 

Risk factors

TMD can affect anyone. However, research shows women are more at risk. This may be linked to hormonal factors, such as changes in estrogen levels, which can affect jaw joints and muscles. Stress-related behaviors, like teeth clenching or grinding, may also play a role. 

TMD is also more common in individuals between 20 and 40 and in those who smoke.   

What are the symptoms of TMD?

TMD symptoms can vary. Some people have mild discomfort, while others experience severe pain. Common signs of TMD include:

• Jaw pain or tenderness on one or both sides
• Pain near the ear, especially when you chew or speak
• A grinding, clicking or popping sound when you open or close your mouth
• Locking of the jaw, making it hard to open or close your mouth fully
• Headaches or migraines, often near the temples
• Pain in the neck, shoulders or upper back
• Tooth pain along with jaw tenderness

These symptoms can come and go for a long time. See your health care provider, dentist or Banner Health specialist for help if you notice any of these signs. 

How is temporomandibular disorder diagnosed?

Diagnosing TMD involves a physical exam or dental checkup. Your provider will ask about your jaw pain, clicking or popping sounds, stiffness and other related issues. 

During the physical exam, your provider will:

• Check jaw movement: They will observe how your jaw opens and closes, looking for signs of uneven motion or problems with movement.
• Test range of motion: Your provider will ask you to open and close your mouth as wide as possible to look at your jaw’s range of motion.
• Listen for sounds: They may listen for clicking, popping or grinding noises as your jaw moves.
• Feel the joint and muscles: Your provider will gently press on your jaw and surrounding muscles to find areas of tenderness or swelling. 

In some cases, imaging tests like dental X-rays, CT scans or MRIs may be used to get a closer look. These tools help pinpoint any damage, arthritis or other problems contributing to your symptoms. 

Treatment options for TMD

Treatment will depend on factors like age, overall health and the severity of the condition. Health care providers usually begin with non-surgical treatments and home remedies before medical therapies. Your provider will guide you toward the most effective solutions. 

At-home care

Many people find relief with simple changes at home:

• Ice and heat therapy: Apply an ice pack to reduce swelling. Then use a warm compress to relax the muscles. Alternate as needed.
• Soft foods: Choose foods like yogurt, mashed potatoes and soups. Avoid hard or chewy items like nuts, candy or steak. 
• Jaw exercises: Your provider may recommend stretches or movements to ease pain and improve jaw function.
• Relaxation techniques: To manage stress, practice deep breathing, yoga or meditation. Keep your jaw relaxed to prevent clenching.
• Pain relievers: Over-the-counter (OTC) medications like ibuprofen or acetaminophen can help with pain and swelling. 

Medical treatments

If at-home care isn’t enough, your provider may suggest:

• Physical therapy: A physical therapist can guide you on exercises to strengthen your jaw and improve mobility. 
• Dental splint or mouthguard: These devices are worn over your teeth to stop grinding or clenching. They also help align your jaw. 
• Medications: Prescription options like muscle relaxants, anti-inflammatory drugs or low-dose antidepressants may ease symptoms. 
• Injections: Corticosteroids or Botox injections can reduce muscle tension and relieve pain.
• Surgery: In severe cases, surgery may be needed to repair or replace the joint. This is rare and usually a last resort. 

How to prevent TMD

While you can’t always prevent TMD, these tips may lower your risk:

• Keep your jaw relaxed. Avoid clenching your teeth when stressed.
• Don’t chew gum or bite on hard objects like pens or ice.
• Eat a balanced diet with foods that don’t strain your jaw.
• Use a mouthguard if you grind your teeth, especially at night.
• Practice good posture to reduce tension in your neck and jaw. 

Living with temporomandibular disorder

TMD can make daily life harder but proper care can help. Many people find relief with small lifestyle changes and medical treatments. If you are experiencing pain or discomfort, talk to a health care provider, dentist or Banner Health specialist.

At Banner Health, we offer expert care for TMJ disorders. Our team can help diagnose the issues and create a personalized treatment plan. Don’t let jaw pain hold you back. Get the support you need.