Five Common Symptoms of TMJ and Solutions to Alleviate Pain

Temporomandibular Joint Disorder (TMJ) can be a frustrating and painful condition, affecting your ability to speak, chew, and even sleep. This disorder impacts the jaw joint and surrounding muscles, often leading to a variety of uncomfortable symptoms. While TMJ is common, many people aren’t aware of the symptoms or the available treatments. At the TMJ & Sleep Therapy Centre of San Diego, we specialize in helping patients find relief through targeted, effective solutions.

1. Jaw Pain or Tenderness

One of the most prevalent symptoms of TMJ is persistent jaw pain or tenderness, especially when opening or closing your mouth. This discomfort can be sharp or dull, and it may radiate to other areas like the ears, neck, and shoulders.

Solution: Orthopedic Appliance Therapy
This non-invasive therapy involves the use of a custom-made appliance to correct the alignment of the jaw. The device helps to reduce strain on the jaw muscles and allows for proper positioning of the temporomandibular joint, providing significant relief from pain.

2. Headaches or Migraines

Chronic headaches or migraines are often overlooked as a symptom of TMJ, but they can be directly linked to the tension in the jaw and facial muscles. Many TMJ sufferers report frequent headaches that start at the temples or behind the eyes.

Solution: Nutritional Counseling and Supplements
Nutritional deficiencies can contribute to inflammation and pain. Our team offers personalized nutritional counseling to ensure you’re getting the right vitamins and minerals to support joint health. Supplements like magnesium, omega-3 fatty acids, and anti-inflammatory herbs can also help reduce the frequency and severity of TMJ-related headaches.

3. Clicking, Popping, or Grating Sounds

If you hear or feel a clicking, popping, or grinding sound when moving your jaw, this is a common indicator of TMJ. These sounds occur when the joint is misaligned or the cartilage is worn down, causing abnormal movement.

Solution: Laser Therapy
Laser therapy is a cutting-edge treatment that promotes healing and reduces inflammation in the affected area. The laser stimulates cellular repair in the tissues around the jaw, alleviating pain and improving function. This non-invasive solution is painless and offers quick results, making it an excellent option for patients experiencing clicking or popping sounds.

4. Difficulty Chewing or Opening the Mouth

TMJ can make it hard to chew or even open your mouth fully. You may feel stiffness in the jaw, or in severe cases, experience a “locked” jaw where it’s difficult to move at all.

Solution: Phonophoresis
Phonophoresis is a technique that uses ultrasound waves to deliver anti-inflammatory medication directly into the tissues surrounding the jaw. This treatment can help relax tight muscles, reduce inflammation, and improve jaw mobility, making it easier to eat, talk, and yawn without discomfort.

5. Ear Pain or Ringing in the Ears (Tinnitus)

Many people with TMJ experience ear-related issues, such as pain, pressure, or ringing (tinnitus). This happens because the temporomandibular joint is located near the ears, and inflammation can easily spread, causing discomfort.

Solution: Orthopedic Appliance Therapy
In addition to relieving jaw pain, orthopedic appliances can also help reduce pressure on the ear canal by improving jaw alignment. This alleviates ear pain and may even diminish the severity of tinnitus symptoms.

Finding Relief at TMJ & Sleep Therapy Centre of San Diego

If you’re suffering from TMJ, it’s important to seek treatment to prevent the condition from worsening. At TMJ & Sleep Therapy Centre of San Diego, we provide a comprehensive approach to TMJ care to address the underlying causes of your symptoms and restore your quality of life. We will customize a treatment plan tailored specifically to your needs, incorporating therapies to help alleviate your TMJ pain.

Contact TMJ & Sleep Therapy Centre of San Diego to schedule a consultation and take the first step towards orofacial pain relief. Visit our office in La Mesa, California, or call (619) 762-4379 to book an appointment today.