TMJ (Jaw) Pain
Jaw pain or temporomandibular dysfunction (TMD) is somewhat common. If you suffer from jaw pain, you know it can be incredibly frustrating. For some, it can even affect the pleasure of eating.
The jaw, or the temporomandibular joint (TMJ), is made up of two highly complex joints connecting your lower jaw to the skull. These joints allow you to chew, yawn, speak and swallow, and are in constant use. Although the TMJ is very strong, it is still susceptible to injury.
At our clinic, we see a variety of patients with jaw and facial pain. We use a variety of assessment tools and treatment techniques to manage your jaw pain.
The jaw, or the temporomandibular joint (TMJ), is made up of two highly complex joints connecting your lower jaw to the skull. These joints allow you to chew, yawn, speak and swallow, and are in constant use. Although the TMJ is very strong, it is still susceptible to injury.
At our clinic, we see a variety of patients with jaw and facial pain. We use a variety of assessment tools and treatment techniques to manage your jaw pain.
How does jaw pain start?
There are many ways your jaw pain can begin. These may include:
- Experiencing trauma to the jaw or head such as a punch or a direct blow from contact sport.
- Wisdom tooth extraction
- Orthodontic work or braces as a teenager
- Excessive chewing
- Facial structure with poor jaw development
- Jaw clenching or teeth grinding because of emotional stress
An injury to the TMJ can lead to poor tracking patterns of the jaw and teeth. This can develop into pain and further dysfunction such as clicking and/or locking.
What you might be feeling?
- Headaches with tension around the cheek and temple areas
- Pain when chewing or talking
- Clicking or popping when you eat or yawn
- Difficulty opening your mouth completely
- Pain even after taking painkillers or anti-inflammatories.
- Jaw locking in the open position
If you experience or have experienced these symptoms, you may need to be professionally assessed by our chiropractor, Paul Simmons.
We carefully assess:
- The motion of each side of the TMJ
- Tracking patterns of the TMJ
- Any tightness or spasm of surrounding muscles
- Teeth shape, position and jaw structure
Once we have completed a detailed assessment of your TMJ, you will have your examination findings explained to you in a way you can understand.
What can you expect.
There are a variety of treatments available for TMJ pain. These can include, but are not limited to:
- External and/or internal massage of tight muscles in and around the neck, mouth, jaw and skull
- Chiropractic adjustments/mobilisations of the jaw
- Take home exercises for relief between appointments
- In some cases, a referral to an allied health professional (e.g. a dentist referral for a custom designed night splint)