What is TMJ Dysfunction?

TMJ dysfunction (also called TMD) is a condition that affects the temporomandibular joint (TMJ)—the hinge that connects your lower jaw to your skull, located just in front of your ears. This joint lets you open and close your mouth to talk, eat, yawn, and chew. When there’s a problem with how this joint, the surrounding muscles, or nearby structures work, it can lead to pain and discomfort. TMJ dysfunction can affect one or both sides of your jaw.

Common TMJ Symptoms:

Common symptoms people with TMJ dysfunction may experience: pain or tenderness in the jaw, face, or around the ears, clicking, popping, or grinding sounds when moving the jaw, and/or difficulty opening the mouth wide. A feeling like the jaw is “locking” open or shut. Headaches, neck aches, or earaches or pain when chewing or talking.

Causes of TMJ:

Jaw injury or trauma, teeth grinding or clenching (often during sleep or times of stress), arthritis affecting the jaw joint, misaligned teeth or bite, long-term stress or muscle tension in the jaw area.

How is TMJ Treated?

The good news is that most cases of TMJ dysfunction can be managed without surgery. Treatment may include: resting the jaw by eating soft foods and avoiding chewing gum, applying warm or cold compresses, gentle jaw exercises or physical therapy, stress management techniques, custom-made dental splints or nightguards, over-the-counter or prescribed medications for pain or inflammation. In rare or severe cases, your doctor or dentist may suggest other options, such as injections or surgery.