The temporomandibular joints (TMJ) are the hinges that connect your jaw to your skull — one on each side. When these joints, and the muscles that control them, are not functioning properly, it is called temporomandibular disorder (TMD). It is a common but often misunderstood condition.
Symptoms of TMD
TMD can cause a wide range of symptoms including: pain or tenderness in the jaw, face, neck, or shoulders; pain in or around the ear; difficulty or discomfort while chewing; clicking, popping, or grating sounds in the jaw joint when opening or closing the mouth; a jaw that gets stuck or locks; and headaches. Not all of these symptoms are always present — TMD presents very differently from person to person.
What Causes TMD?
TMD can result from several factors working alone or in combination: injury to the jaw joint or surrounding muscles, teeth grinding or clenching (bruxism), arthritis in the joint, poor dental occlusion (bite alignment), stress-related muscle tension, and structural problems within the joint itself. In many cases, the exact cause is not clear.
Treatment Options
Most TMD cases improve with conservative treatment: custom night guards to prevent bruxism, anti-inflammatory medications, physical therapy or jaw exercises, stress management techniques, and soft food diets during flare-ups. These approaches resolve symptoms for the majority of patients. More invasive treatments (injections, surgery) are reserved for severe, persistent cases that do not respond to conservative care.
When to See a Dentist
You should seek evaluation for TMD if jaw pain is persistent or worsening, if you have difficulty fully opening or closing your mouth, or if the pain is affecting your sleep or daily function. At Smileworks Dental in Calgary, we assess the jaw joint, muscles, and bite as part of our comprehensive examination and can recommend appropriate management for your specific situation.