Conditions We Treat

TMJ Syndrome (Temporomandibular Joint Disorder)

What Is It?

TMJ syndrome refers to a group of conditions affecting the temporomandibular joint (TMJ), which connects the jawbone (mandible) to the skull in front of the ears. It includes pain, dysfunction, or inflammation of the joint, surrounding muscles, or the disc within the joint.

The condition may be caused by:

  • Jaw clenching or teeth grinding (bruxism)
  • Trauma to the jaw or joint
  • Arthritis (osteoarthritis or rheumatoid arthritis)
  • Disc displacement
  • Poor posture or neck muscle tension

TMJ syndrome is more common in women and typically affects people between ages 20 and 40.

Symptoms

  • Jaw pain or tenderness, often in front of the ear
  • Clicking, popping, or grinding sounds when opening or closing the mouth
  • Limited or painful jaw movement
  • Locking of the jaw (open or closed position)
  • Headaches, earaches, or facial pain
  • Pain that may radiate to the neck or shoulders
  • Difficulty chewing or discomfort when biting

Diagnosis

  • Clinical evaluation: Your provider will assess jaw range of motion, joint sounds, and tenderness in the TMJ and associated muscles
  • Medical history: includes habits like teeth grinding, trauma, or stress-related jaw clenching
  • Imaging (if needed):
    • X-rays or panoramic radiographs may rule out joint damage
    • MRI can assess disc position and soft tissue structures
    • CT scan may help visualize bone changes

Treatment

Conservative Options:

  • Activity modification: avoid hard foods, gum chewing, wide jaw opening (yawning, singing, dental work)
  • NSAIDs: to reduce inflammation and relieve pain
  • Moist heat or cold packs
  • Physical therapy: focused on jaw mobility, posture correction, and muscle relaxation
  • Occlusal splints (night guards): for patients with bruxism or clenching
  • Stress management: biofeedback or relaxation techniques

Interventional Options:

  • Trigger point injections into masticatory muscles (e.g., masseter, temporalis)
  • Prolotherapy
  • PRP
  • Botulinum toxin injections: may help reduce muscle overactivity in chronic cases

Surgical Options:

  • Rarely needed, but may include:
    • Arthrocentesis (joint flushing)
    • Arthroscopy or open joint surgery in severe, structural cases

Experience Personalized Care & Expertise Today

Begin your journey to optimal health with Point Performance

Request Appointment