The lower jaw is connected to the skull by a hinge joint known as the temporomandibular joint (TMJ). Like any joint in the body, the TMJ is vulnerable to injury and wear and tear over time, putting you at risk for a condition known as TMJ syndrome (also known as temporomandibular joint disorder, or TMD). The National Institutes of Health (NIH) estimate that at least 10 million Americans suffer from TMJ disorders, but the numbers are likely much higher. TMJ disorders can be painful, making it difficult to chew and eat your food and other uncomfortable symptoms. 

Our team of dental professionals at Virginia H. Ellis, DDS Dental Corp. offer a number of treatment options at our Orinda, California office to help you manage your TMJ symptoms.

Signs and symptoms of TMJ disorders

An occasional pop or snap in your jaw doesn’t necessarily mean there’s a problem with your joint. Between chewing and swallowing your food, yawning, and opening and closing your mouth to speak, the TMJ is especially active and prone to strain from time to time, especially if you also happen to grind your teeth while you sleep or clench your jaw. Like any joint, the TMJ contains cartilage and soft tissue that can become damaged and deteriorate over time, leading to symptoms, like pain, and making it more difficult for the joint to work properly.

What causes TMJ disorders?

There are a few factors that can cause or increase your risk of developing TMD, but sometimes symptoms develop without a clear underlying cause. Some of the more common risk factors include:

  • Trauma/mechanical damage to the joint
  • Arthritis
  • “Slipped” or damaged disc
  • Connective tissue damage or disorder
  • Chronic teeth grinding or clenching

If you struggle with teeth grinding, our dentists may recommend night guards to help protect your teeth and jaw from pain, stiffness, and physical damage while you sleep.

Temporomandibular Joint (TMJ) disorder can cause a range of uncomfortable and sometimes debilitating symptoms. The most common symptom is pain and tenderness in the jaw, which can affect one or both sides of your mouth. However, TMJ disorder doesn’t just impact the jaw—it can also lead to discomfort in other areas of the face, including the temples, ears, neck, and even the shoulders. Some people may also experience frequent headaches or a sensation of muscle fatigue in the jaw, especially after talking, chewing, or yawning.

Another hallmark symptom of TMJ disorder is a popping, clicking, or grinding sound when you open or close your mouth or while chewing. This noise may occur with or without pain, but if left untreated, it can become more pronounced over time and may indicate worsening joint dysfunction.

In addition to pain and jaw sounds, TMJ disorder can cause noticeable changes in your bite. Some individuals experience difficulty aligning their upper and lower teeth when closing their mouth, leading to an uneven bite or discomfort while chewing. Swelling along the jawline or near the temporomandibular joint is also common. In more severe cases, the jaw may temporarily lock in either an open or closed position, making it difficult to speak or eat.

If you're experiencing any of these symptoms, it’s important to seek professional evaluation. A dentist or specialist can assess the condition of your jaw joint and recommend treatment options to alleviate pain and prevent further complications.

What to do if you have symptoms of TMJ disorder

TMJ disorder symptoms range in severity from person to person. If you experience swelling or pain that lasts for more than a few days or goes away and returns, schedule an appointment for a dental exam. There are several treatment options available depending on your situation. 

The most common treatments for TMJ disorder include medication and lifestyle modifications to help relieve pressure and tension on your jaw. 


For more information about the treatment plans available at Virginia H. Ellis, DDS Dental Corp., contact us today to schedule an appointment at our Orinda, California office.