TMJ dysfunction treatment.
When your jaw is telling you something.
Pain when chewing, clicking or popping when you open your mouth, headaches or difficulty moving your jaw can all be signs of temporomandibular joint dysfunction (TMD).
At Claremont Dental, we assess jaw joint problems carefully to understand what may be contributing to your symptoms and whether treatment or appliance therapy may help.
What is TMJ dysfunction?
Your temporomandibular joints are the joints that connect your lower jaw to your skull and allow you to chew, speak and move your jaw.
TMJ dysfunction, also known as TMD, describes a range of problems affecting the jaw joints, the muscles involved in jaw movement and the way these structures work together.
Symptoms can include jaw pain, clicking or popping, difficulty opening your mouth, headaches and discomfort around the jaw, face, neck or shoulders.
Clenching and grinding of the teeth, known as bruxism, can also place repeated stress on the jaw and may contribute to symptoms.
Is it right for you?
TMJ symptoms can vary considerably from person to person.
You may experience occasional discomfort, while others may have persistent pain, restricted jaw movement or episodes where the jaw locks.
If you're experiencing unexplained jaw pain, clicking, grinding or changes in how your jaw moves, an assessment can help identify what may be contributing to your symptoms.
Understanding what's causing the problem is the first step towards managing it.
Our approach
Understand the cause before treating the symptoms.
TMJ dysfunction can have multiple contributing factors, so we don't believe in taking a one-size-fits-all approach.
We'll take the time to understand your history and symptoms before carrying out an assessment of your jaw movement, muscles and bite.
Where appropriate, treatment may include appliance therapy and other conservative approaches designed to reduce strain and help manage symptoms.
And if your needs extend beyond what we can appropriately provide at Claremont Dental, we'll refer you to an appropriate health professional or specialist.
Good care means understanding when to treat - and when to refer.
The existing Claremont Dental page specifically describes assessment of jaw movement, posture, muscle function and related neurological factors, followed by an individual treatment plan that may include a dental orthotic.
What to expect
Your first appointment will begin with a detailed discussion about your symptoms, dental history and any factors that may be contributing to your discomfort.
We'll assess your jaw movement and function and examine the relevant muscles and teeth.
Depending on your individual circumstances, we may recommend further investigation before developing a treatment plan.
Treatment can include appliance therapy designed to help manage symptoms and reduce strain on the jaw.
We'll explain what we're recommending, why it may help and what you can expect before treatment begins.
Your questions answered
What are the symptoms of TMJ dysfunction?
Symptoms can include jaw pain, clicking, popping or grating sounds, difficulty opening or closing your mouth, headaches and discomfort around the jaw, face, neck or shoulders. Some people may also experience jaw locking.
Can clenching or grinding cause TMJ problems?
Clenching and grinding, commonly referred to as bruxism, can place repeated stress on the jaw and may contribute to TMJ symptoms.
Can TMJ dysfunction go away on its own?
Symptoms can come and go, and some people experience periods where discomfort is minimal. However, if symptoms continue or become more frequent, an assessment can help determine what's contributing to the problem and how it can be managed.
Should I see a dentist about jaw pain or clicking?
Yes. A dentist can assess your jaw, teeth and muscles and help determine whether your symptoms are consistent with TMJ dysfunction or whether further assessment is appropriate.
Will TMJ treatment be painful?
Treatment is generally aimed at reducing pain and irritation rather than creating additional discomfort. We'll explain the recommended approach and what you can expect before treatment begins.
Health funds
Claremont Dental accepts a wide range of health funds.
Your level of cover will depend on your individual policy and the treatment you're receiving. We recommend checking your available benefits with your health fund.
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Let's talk about your jaw.
If you're experiencing jaw pain, clicking, headaches, clenching or difficulty moving your jaw, we're here to help you understand what's happening and what your options may be.