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TMD/TMJ Pain Treatment –
Reduce Pain and Stiffness in the Jaw
TMJ and TMD, is a temporomandibular joint disorder that can cause pain or stiffness in the jaw. If you have TMJ/TMD, you may also experience a clicking noise when opening and closing the jaw. TMJ and TMD pain treatment involves take-home solutions, but Dr. Sarah Latterell may recommend other treatment methods if the issue becomes more severe.
How Do You Know If You Have TMD/TMJ Pain?
TMD and TMJ pain can sometimes go away on its own. However, it’s important to consult your dentist if you have any of the following symptoms:
TMJ can be caused by a variety of factors, such as arthritis, genetics, injury, bruxism or sleep apnea. If you’re unsure of your risk factors, it is always best to speak with a professional for advice.
What Are TMD/TMJ Pain Treatment Methods?
At your appointment, Dr. Sarah will provide an overall assessment of your mouth and the TMJ issue. She will assess the muscles of the face for tenderness/tightness. She will listen closely for any clicking sounds in the jaw and observe your range of motion when opening and closing. If needed, she will take an X-ray or refer you for additional imaging. A discussion of jaw posture and habits, medical/dental/social history, sleep and airway issues will help aid in diagnosis.
Most TMD/TMJ pain treatment methods can be performed at home. Dr. Sarah may recommend the following:
If pain persists, Dr. Sarah may recommend a custom appliance or more involved procedures to manage TMD/TMJ pain.
Frequently Asked Questions
TMJ refers to the temporomandibular joint itself—the hinge that connects your jaw to your skull. TMD stands for temporomandibular disorder, which refers to the actual pain, stiffness, or dysfunction affecting that joint and the surrounding muscles.
Many patients experience persistent jaw pain or tenderness, a clicking or popping noise when opening the mouth, and stiffness that makes laughing or smiling difficult. Frequent headaches and sporadic aching in the teeth can also be signs of TMD.
TMD can be triggered by several factors, including bruxism (chronic teeth grinding or clenching), jaw injuries, arthritis, or even genetics. Lifestyle factors like high stress or excessive caffeine intake can also magnify jaw tension.
During your assessment, Dr. Sarah Latterell will check your facial muscles for tenderness, listen for clicking sounds, and observe your jaw’s range of motion. She may also take X-rays and discuss your sleep habits, airway health, and medical history to identify the root cause of the discomfort.
Yes, most cases are managed with conservative, non-surgical methods. Dr. Sarah Latterell may recommend custom night guards to prevent grinding, specific jaw exercises, anti-inflammatory medications, and “soft food” diets. For persistent pain, a custom-fitted dental appliance may be used to reposition the jaw and relieve pressure.