What is TMJ Disorders?
The temporomandibular joint (TMJ) connects the lower jaw to the skull just in front of the ear. TMJ disorders include muscle pain from clenching or grinding, displacement of the joint disc, arthritis, recurrent dislocation and, less commonly, fusion of the joint (ankylosis) after injury or infection.
Common symptoms
- Pain in front of the ear, in the jaw or temples
- Clicking, popping or grating when opening the mouth
- Jaw locking open or closed, or limited mouth opening
- Headaches, earache or facial ache linked to chewing
- Recurrent dislocation of the jaw
When to seek an assessment
Seek assessment if jaw pain lasts more than a few weeks, if mouth opening becomes limited, if the jaw locks, or if it dislocates. A locked or dislocated jaw needs urgent attention.
The role of an Oral & Maxillofacial Surgeon
Most TMJ problems improve without surgery. An Oral & Maxillofacial Surgeon can distinguish muscle-related pain from joint disease, guide conservative care, and provide joint procedures or surgery for the smaller group who need them.
Diagnosis and assessment
Assessment includes history, examination of the joints and chewing muscles, and imaging such as OPG, CBCT, CT or MRI when needed. Other causes of facial pain are considered before any treatment.
Treatment options
The options below are a general overview. The right approach for you depends on your examination, imaging and any biopsy or pathology findings.
Conservative care
Soft diet, jaw rest, heat, exercises, stress management and short courses of medication.
Occlusal splints
Custom night guards to reduce the effects of clenching and grinding.
Joint injections and arthrocentesis
Washing out the joint or injecting medication for selected disc and inflammatory problems.
TMJ surgery
Open joint surgery for ankylosis, recurrent dislocation or advanced joint disease, usually under general anaesthesia.
Recovery and aftercare
- Conservative measures usually improve symptoms over weeks
- After procedures, a soft diet and prescribed jaw exercises are important
- Physiotherapy may be advised to restore mouth opening
- Follow-up to monitor joint function
You will receive specific aftercare instructions for your procedure.
Referral and multidisciplinary care
Where pain has a strong muscular, dental, neurological or psychological component, input from a physiotherapist, dentist, neurologist or pain specialist may be recommended. Complex joint reconstruction may be referred to a tertiary centre.
This page provides general information and is not a substitute for a personal consultation. Outcomes vary between individuals.