Understanding temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders.

Temporomandibular (jaw) joint problems

What are they?

The joint between your upper and lower jaws, just in front of the ears, is called the Temporomandibular joint (‘TMJ’ for short). A fibrous disc separates the upper and lower bone surfaces. The jaw joints can occasionally cause problems, which your dentist can help diagnose and treat.

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Jaw joint pain is usually the result of increased tension in the jaw muscles.

Factors involved in this include:

  • Grinding or clenching your teeth, in your sleep or during the day.
  • Habits such as biting your nails or chewing a pen.

These are often related to fatigue, stress and anxiety. Painkillers and sedatives can relieve symptoms in the short term.

Temporomandibular (jaw) joint problems

Possible solutions to the underlying problems include:

  • Using relaxation and stress-relieving techniques.
  • Giving up habits that aggravate the condition.
  • Wearing a ‘bite-guard’ at night, to stop you grinding your teeth in your sleep.

Some people may be experiencing jaw joint problems due to the way their teeth or dentures meet when they bite. This can be resolved by adjusting the position or the shape of some teeth, by replacing missing teeth with dentures or implants, or by making a new denture, as necessary.

Temporomandibular (jaw) joint problems

FAQs

Frequently asked questions

What are the symptoms?

  • Clicking or grating noises when you move your jaw.
  • Difficulty opening or closing your mouth.
  • Swelling or tenderness over the joint.
  • Pain in the face, neck and chewing muscles (some people also have pain in the shoulders and/or back).
  • Headaches or migraine, especially first thing in the morning.
  • Pain in your ear, possibly with ringing noises.
  • Clicking or grating noises are usually down to the cartilage jumping when you open your mouth.

The problem can be addressed by:

  • Cutting up food into small pieces.
  • Avoiding very chewy foods.
  • Avoiding very hard foods.
  • Trying not to open your mouth too wide – for example, when you yawn.

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“Anna has been my Hygienist since she started working at the Manor Dental Practice and has always achieved the highest…”

Mr Williams

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“What a wonderful team! They provide a comfortable environment, are personable and incredibly knowledgeable. Highly recommend!”

Kate S

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“I have recently moved to the area and needed emergency dental treatment. On the recommendation of my new neighbours, I…”

Judith M

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“Recently transferred across to this practice and have been super impressed with the team. I've had a check-up and hygienist…”

Ross C

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“Friendly, professional service. Full explanation of work was given, very gentle treatment and a great, friendly dental team. Highly recommended.”

Karen H

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“I would like to highly commend this practice. I have been to some pretty dreadful dentists over the years, and…”

Sharon H

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“In Bath on a visit and needed to attend an emergency appointment for my family member. We were treated with…”

Allison A

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“Cracked half of my filling and decided to register and get treatment with Manor Dental. X-rays and a scan of…”

Julie D

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“Had an emergency appointment for a broken front tooth. It was seen that morning, and the tooth was repaired. Faultless…”

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