TMJ Dysfunction
TMJ (TemproMandibular Joint) is the jaw joint up beside the ear and it can become damaged like any other joint. Symptoms include general ache in this area, sore on opening/closing mouth, reduced range of movements, clicking. Symptoms can also manifest in pain/tenderness in the muscles of face and/or pain in teeth, cracked teeth/fillings. It can also be associated with back/neck pain, headaches and migraine.
The causes include trauma, poor bite (either through missing teeth or badly aligned teeth) or stress-induced habits such as grinding/clenching (bruxism). Treatment can include dietary advice, jaw exercises and splint therapy to help reposition and protect the joint. Sometimes in more severe cases, it may involve drug therapy and/or surgery. We can refer to pain specialist dentists if required.
