Temporomandibular joint dysfunction

The temporomandibular joint (TMJ) is the joint on either side of your jaw, connecting your jaw to your skull. The TMJ joint can move in multiple directions, allowing you to:

• speak
• eat
• swallow
• make facial expressions

TMJ dysfunction is when you have a:

• problem with the muscles around your TMJ
• problem with the TMJ
• combination of joint and muscle problems

It's common to have TMJ dysfunction. Nearly half of all people experience jaw dysfunction at some stage during their life.

The symptoms of TMJ dysfunction include:

• pain in your jaw, especially when eating
• an ache or pain in front of your ear
• a locking sensation in your jaw, making it difficult to open your mouth
• a clicking or grating noise when you chew
• an uncomfortable or uneven bite
• hearing problems, such as tinnitus (ringing in your ears)
• swelling around your TMJ

You may notice your symptoms are worse when you are stressed or anxious.

TMJ dysfunction can be caused by:

• an injury to your jaw, head or neck
• an uneven bite
• jaw clenching or teeth grinding, which may be linked to stress or anxiety
• wear and tear of your TMJ, usually caused by osteoarthritis
• other joint diseases, such as rheumatoid arthritis or gout
• dental (tooth) issues, such as new fillings or dentures that may cause you to have an uneven bite

You might have TMJ dysfunction without any obvious cause.

See your doctor if you have symptoms of TMJ dysfunction, or you are worried about any changes in your mouth or jaw.

Your doctor can diagnose TMJ dysfunction. Your doctor will:

• discuss your symptoms
• carefully examine your jaw
• ask about your medical history

Your doctor may recommend further tests, such as:

• x-ray
• computed tomography (CT) scan
• magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scan
• blood test

In most cases, TMJ dysfunction improves over time. Your symptoms may go away without needing treatment.

You can help improve your symptoms by avoiding things that can aggravate your TMJ.

You should:

• eat soft foods
• avoid biting your nails
• cut all food into small pieces
• avoid clenching your jaw
• avoid opening your mouth wide
• avoid chewing gum

Medicines for TMJ dysfunction

Your doctor might suggest taking pain relief medicines or anti-inflammatory medicines.

Talk with your pharmacist about using anti-inflammatory gel that can be applied to the skin around your jaw.

Other treatment options

Other treatment options for TMJ dysfunction include:

• relaxation techniques to help relieve stress and anxiety. A psychologist can teach you how to use these techniques.
• gentle jaw-strengthening exercises to help improve your jaw movement. A physiotherapist can show you which exercises are right for you.
• wearing a specifically designed mouthguard while you sleep, to help prevent teeth grinding. A dentist or an orthodontist can create a mouth guard suitable for you.

If your TMJ dysfunction does not get better after a few weeks, it can lead to chronic (long-term) jaw pain. Chronic jaw pain can be distressing and may require surgery.

You can help prevent TMJ dysfunction by:

• managing your stress and anxiety levels
• visiting your dentist regularly to prevent dental problems
• using a mouthguard at night if you grind your teeth

Visit The Australian and New Zealand Association of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons (Opens in new tab) (ANZAOMS) to learn more about temporomandibular joint disorders.

You can also call the healthdirect helpline on 1800 022 222 (known as NURSE-ON-CALL in Victoria). A registered nurse is available to speak with you 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.