Temporomandibular Joint (TMJ) Disorders

The temporomandibular joints connect the lower jaw to the skull and are among the most heavily used joints in the body. When they are not functioning properly, the effects range from mild clicking to genuinely disabling pain.

Common symptoms

Pain in front of the ear or along the jaw, clicking or grating on opening, locking of the jaw open or closed, difficulty chewing, and associated headaches or neck ache.

How it is treated

Treatment is staged from conservative to surgical. Most patients improve with a combination of bite splints, physiotherapy, medication and management of grinding habits. Where a structural problem within the joint is confirmed, surgical options are considered — but only after conservative measures have been given a fair trial.

You may need this if

Pain in front of the ear or along the jaw
Clicking, grating or locking when opening
Headaches, neck ache, or waking with a tight jaw
Difficulty chewing, or limited mouth opening

Not sure whether this applies to you? Call and describe the problem — we will tell you honestly.

What treatment involves

1

Diagnosis first

Jaw joint pain is frequently mistaken for toothache or ear infection. Examination and imaging identify what is actually happening before treatment.

2

Conservative management

A custom bite splint, jaw exercises, heat, anti-inflammatory medication and managing clenching or grinding habits. Most patients improve at this stage.

3

Reassessment

Progress is reviewed. Conservative measures are given a proper trial rather than abandoned early.

4

Further options

For the minority with a confirmed structural problem, injection or surgical options are considered.

Why it is worth doing

Correct diagnosis first Jaw joint pain is frequently mistaken for toothache or ear problems.

Conservative treatment first Splints, physiotherapy and habit management before anything surgical.

Relief from related symptoms Headaches, neck ache and ear discomfort often settle alongside.

Surgical option if needed Available in-house for the minority of cases that require it.

Aftercare

Wear the splint exactly as directed — inconsistent use does not work
Soft diet during flare-ups, and avoid wide yawning and chewing gum
Notice and interrupt daytime clenching; it is often the real driver

Questions