Jaw Joint Pain

Causes of Jaw Joint Pain

Jaw joint pain can result from various factors, including:

• Bruxism: Habitual grinding or clenching of teeth can put excessive pressure on the TMJ, leading to pain and dysfunction.
• Injury: Trauma to the jaw or head can damage the TMJ or surrounding muscles.
• Arthritis: Degenerative joint conditions such as osteoarthritis or rheumatoid arthritis can affect the TMJ.
• Stress: High levels of stress can lead to muscle tension and clenching, contributing to TMJ disorders.
• Misalignment: Misaligned teeth or an improper bite can cause uneven pressure on the TMJ.
• Other Medical Conditions: Conditions such as fibromyalgia and sleep apnea can also be associated with TMJ disorders.

Symptoms of Jaw Joint Pain

Common symptoms of TMJ disorders include:

• Pain or tenderness in the jaw joint area
• Difficulty or discomfort while chewing
• Aching pain in and around the ear
• Clicking or popping sounds when opening or closing the mouth
• Locking of the jaw, making it difficult to open or close the mouth
• Headaches or migraines
• Facial pain
• Neck and shoulder pain

Diagnosis and Treatment of Jaw Joint Pain

At Payneham Road Dental Centre and North Terrace Dental Centre, our experienced dentists will perform a thorough examination to diagnose TMJ disorders. This may include a physical examination, reviewing your medical and dental history, and taking X-rays or other imaging studies to assess the condition of the jaw joint and surrounding structures.

Treatment Options for Jaw Joint Pain

Treatment for TMJ disorders varies depending on the severity and underlying cause of the condition. Our dental team offers a range of effective treatment options, including:

• Lifestyle Modifications: Simple changes such as eating soft foods, avoiding chewing gum, and practicing stress-reduction techniques can alleviate TMJ symptoms.
• Medications: Over-the-counter pain relievers, anti-inflammatory medications, and muscle relaxants can help reduce pain and inflammation associated with TMJ disorders.
• Physical Therapy: Exercises to strengthen and stretch the jaw muscles can improve function and reduce pain. Our dental team can provide guidance on specific exercises tailored to your needs.
• Occlusal Splints or Mouthguards: Custom-made devices worn at night can prevent teeth grinding and clenching, reducing pressure on the TMJ.
• Dental Treatments: Correcting bite misalignment through orthodontics, crowns, or bridges can alleviate TMJ symptoms by ensuring even distribution of pressure on the jaw joint.
• Injections: In some cases, corticosteroid injections into the joint can provide relief from pain and inflammation.
• Surgery: In severe cases, surgical intervention may be necessary to repair or replace the damaged joint. This is typically considered only when other treatments have been unsuccessful.