Temporomandibular Joint (TMJ) disorder conditions are often misunderstood. Temporomandibular Joint disorders are a series of various different conditions. These conditions affect your jaw joint and surrounding muscles.
This article is a comprehensive guide about TMJ disorder, including its explanation, causes, symptoms, and a variety of treatments from reputable doctors. Our aim is to provide clear information and accessible treatment.
What is TMJ disorder?
The temporomandibular joint connects our jawbone to our skull. It acts like a sliding hinge. It allows for movements essential for speaking, yawning, and chewing. TMJ disorder (TMD) occurs when there is a problem with the jaw joint, ligaments, and muscles that help control jaw movements.

It can cause various health issues, such as severe headaches, jaw pain, and difficulty opening and closing the mouth for chewing and speaking.
People normally have a misconception about TMJ. TMJ generally refers to our jaw joints. On the other hand, TMD is the abbreviation for temporomandibular joint disorder or dysfunction. An average human being contains two TMJ joints on either side of the face.
Causes of TMJ Disorders
There are many causes of TMJ Disorders, such as:
- Jaw injuries – A sudden shock or trauma to the jaw or head can damage the TMJ.
- Arthritis – Both types of arthritis: Osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis can alter the function of the TMJ.

- Bruxism – People who are habitual to grinding and clenching of teeth can sometimes put extra pressure on their TMJ.
- Stress – High stress levels definitely cause muscle tension. As a result, TMJ joints will be affected.
- Misalignment – Sometimes, biting inappropriately can put a strain on the TMJ.
- Connective Tissue Diseases – Ehlers-Danlos syndrome or related conditions can affect the TMJ.
Symptoms of TMJ Disorders
It can be shown by a variety of symptoms. These symptoms can be temporary or last for many years. Some common symptoms include:
- Consistent jaw pain or tenderness in the jaw.
- Frequent and severe headaches. Sometimes, migraine pain is also the cause of this disorder.
- Pain around the ears and muscles, spreading to the face, is also a common symptom. Ringing in the ear (Tinnitus) is also a common symptom.
- Difficulty in chewing, discomfort, or pain in biting or eating.
- Audible clicking, grating, and popping sounds when moving the jaw or speaking.
- Jaw locking is one of the major symptoms. Jaws may get stuck in an open and closed position.
- Facial pain is also a symptom of TMJ disorder.
- Neck and shoulder pain or stiffness.
- Misalignment of teeth (malocclusion).
Diagnosis of Temporomandibular TMJ Disorder
Only a reputable healthcare expert can diagnose Temporomandibular TMJ disorder. It can be done by a dental expert during a physical examination. There are highly professional dental expert centres, and Kidsgrove Dental and Implant Center is one of the most trusted centres that help to diagnose and treat this disorder.

Diagnosis involves:
- Conduct a physical examination of the jaw.
- Listen for sounds during the movement of the jaw.
- Check the range of motion and how often it can easily open and close.
- Press the surrounding areas of TMJ joints and muscles to check for pain points.
- Some scans, like a CT scan, MRI (simple or contrast, depending on the situation), TMJ arthroscopy or X-rays, to get a detailed view of the jaw.
Treatment Options for TMJ Disorders
Treatments are of different kinds for TMJ disorders. It depends on the condition of the jaw and its symptoms. From simple self-care practices to more advanced treatments, there are various effective treatment strategies.
If you are feeling the above -mentioned symptoms, you should book an appointment with a dental expert. There are many professional dental and implant experts. Kidsgrove Dental and Implant Center is one of the professional dental and implant centers. Experts are available 24/7 at our center with the latest machines and fully equipped lab.
Self-care Practices
- Jaw Exercises – It is referred to patients by physiotherapists to strengthen the jaw muscles.
- Heat and ice packs – Sometimes stiffness can be released through heat or ice cold packs suggested by the facial expert.
- Dietary restrictions – Eating soft and semi-liquid food helps to chew and gives minimum jaw strain.
- Stress Management – Implying medications, yoga, and face workouts help to reduce stress and anger. It helps to prevent clenching and muscle tension.
Medications

- Painkillers – ibuprofen, acetaminophen or some other pain relievers might help to reduce pain and inflammation.
- Muscle relaxation – Muscle relaxants help to relax the jaw muscles. Transcutaneous electronic nerve stimulation helps to relax the muscles.
- Antidepressants – Minimum dose of an antidepressant helps to reduce pain or bruxism.
Dental Treatments
A dental expert can bring back your smile, so choose wisely. We suggest Kidsgrove Dental and Implant Center based on their reviews and recommendations.
- MouthGuards – Custom-made splints or mouthguards can help to prevent teeth grinding. It also reduces jaw strain.
- Dental Problems and Corrections – In some cases, there is a problem with tooth alignment. Correcting bite misalignments with braces or other dental procedures can help relax jaw muscles.
Medical Treatments
- Physical Therapy or Physiotherapy
Ultrasound therapy, moist heat, mouth exercises, and basic muscle exercises by a physiotherapist can help to relieve.
- Injections
Corticosteroid injections are a powerful solution to reduce inflammation. It also helps to relieve the pain.
- Surgery
In some cases, we have to perform surgical procedures like arthroscopy, arthrocentesis and open-joint surgery. Kidsgrove Dental and Implant Centre is one of the many centres offering highly professional care. They will surely suggest the best recommended options.
Treatment depends on a person’s condition. Kidsgrove Dental and Implant Centre offers various treatments including surgeries by surgical experts.
When to Seek Medical Help for TMJ disorder?
In most cases, one can prevent and manage TMJ disorder with self-care and non-invasive treatments. But in some cases, it is necessary to take medical advice from medical experts, such as:
- Consistent and persistent pain and tenderness.
- Feeling extremely difficult to open and close the jaw.
- Self-care treatments and home remedies are not helping to relieve the pain.
- You can feel significant changes in your bite or facial structure.
Final Thoughts
TMJ disorders can surely affect the quality of life, but with proper care, diagnosis, and treatment, relief is definitely possible. You can read the above-mentioned symptoms and causes to explore the best treatment option for you. Moreover, I always seek advice from medical experts and the Kidsgrove Dental and Implant Centre, which is one of the many centres that offers 24/7 medical help. TMJ pain can alter your life, and fixing this pain will improve your life overall.
Frequently asked questions
Can we prevent TMJ disorder?
No, but you can take some precautions to prevent it in some cases.
- Wear a mouthguard at night if you clench or grind your teeth. if yo
- Wearing a mouthguard while playing sports can also help to prevent muscle shocks.
- Maintain a good posture.
What will happen if I get TMJ dysfunction?
It affects and alters your life. Some people get a temporary TMJ disorder that can be cured with exercise and self-care. In some cases, people experience severe symptoms, including severe jaw pain, constant headaches, or the above-mentioned symptoms. If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, find an effective healthcare provider.
How long does TMJ disorder last?
It depends on the condition of a person. If it\’s mild, with proper care and treatment, this disorder doesn\’t last too long and impacts everyday activities.