Do you experience jaw pain, headaches, or difficulty chewing? These could be signs of TMJ disorder (Temporomandibular Joint Disorder), a condition that affects the joints connecting your jawbone to your skull.

At the office of Dr. Manu Dave Kacker DDS in Westlake Village, CA, we specialize in diagnosing and treating TMJ disorder to help patients find relief from jaw pain and discomfort. In this article, we’ll explain what TMJ disorder is, its symptoms, causes, and when to seek professional help.

What Is TMJ Disorder?

The temporomandibular joint (TMJ) is a hinge-like joint that allows your jaw to move when you speak, chew, or yawn. When this joint becomes irritated, inflamed, or misaligned, it can lead to TMJ disorder (TMD).

TMJ disorder can cause jaw pain, stiffness, clicking sounds, and difficulty moving the jaw. The condition varies from mild discomfort to severe pain that interferes with daily life.

Common Signs and Symptoms of TMJ Disorder

If you have TMJ disorder, you may experience one or more of the following symptoms:

Jaw Pain and Tenderness

• Persistent pain in the jaw, especially near the ears, temples, or cheeks.
• Increased pain when chewing, yawning, or speaking.

Clicking, Popping, or Grinding Sounds

• A clicking or popping noise when opening or closing the mouth.
• A sensation of the jaw “locking” or getting stuck in an open or closed position.

Headaches and Facial Pain

• Frequent headaches, especially around the temples and forehead.
• Facial muscle pain or soreness, often mistaken for sinus problems.

Ear Pain and Fullness

• Earaches or a feeling of fullness in the ears.
• Ringing in the ears (tinnitus) without any signs of an ear infection.

Difficulty Chewing or Biting

• Pain when chewing tough foods.
• The feeling that your upper and lower teeth don’t fit together properly.

Neck and Shoulder Pain: TMJ disorder can cause muscle tension in the neck and shoulders, leading to discomfort or stiffness.

What Causes TMJ Disorder?

Several factors can contribute to TMJ disorder, including:

1. Teeth Grinding and Clenching (Bruxism): Grinding or clenching your teeth, often during sleep, puts extra stress on the TMJ, leading to pain and discomfort.
2. Jaw Injury or Trauma: A direct injury to the jaw, such as a blow to the face or whiplash, can damage the TMJ and surrounding muscles.
3. Arthritis: Conditions like osteoarthritis or rheumatoid arthritis can affect the TMJ, causing inflammation and pain.
4. Misaligned Bite or Dental Issues: If your teeth do not align properly, it can put extra strain on the TMJ, leading to dysfunction over time.
5. Stress and Anxiety: High levels of stress can cause people to tighten their jaw muscles or clench their teeth, which can worsen TMJ symptoms.

When Should You Seek Help for TMJ Disorder?

If you have mild TMJ symptoms, home care techniques like jaw exercises, warm compresses, and avoiding hard foods may provide relief. However, you should see a dentist like Dr. Manu Dave Kacker DDS in Westlake Village, CA if:

• Your jaw pain is persistent or getting worse.
• You experience frequent headaches or ear pain.
• You hear loud clicking or popping sounds when moving your jaw.
• Your jaw gets stuck or locked.
• You have difficulty eating, chewing, or speaking comfortably.

Early treatment can prevent the condition from worsening and improve your quality of life.

How Is TMJ Disorder Diagnosed?

At Dr. Manu Dave Kacker DDS’s office in Westlake Village, CA, diagnosing TMJ disorder involves:

• A physical examination to check for jaw pain, swelling, or limited movement.
• Listening for clicking or popping sounds in the joint when you open and close your mouth.
• X-rays or imaging tests to assess the jaw structure.
• Reviewing your symptoms and medical history to identify possible causes.

Treatment Options for TMJ Disorder

The treatment for TMJ disorder depends on the severity of the symptoms. Here are some common approaches:

1. Lifestyle and Home Remedies

• Apply warm or cold compresses to reduce pain and inflammation.
• Avoid hard or chewy foods that put pressure on the jaw.
• Practice relaxation techniques to relieve stress-related jaw tension.
• Jaw exercises and stretching to improve mobility and reduce stiffness.

2. Dental Treatments

• Custom Nightguards – If you grind or clench your teeth, a custom-made mouthguard can prevent further damage.
• Dental Adjustments – If misaligned teeth are contributing to TMJ disorder, orthodontic treatments may be recommended.

3. Medications

• Pain relievers and anti-inflammatory drugs to reduce discomfort.
• Muscle relaxants to relieve jaw tension.

4. Physical Therapy: A specialist may recommend jaw exercises, massages, or ultrasound therapy to improve jaw function.

5. Advanced Treatments (For Severe Cases)

• Corticosteroid Injections – To reduce inflammation in the TMJ.
• Surgical Procedures – Surgery is only considered if other treatments fail and the condition severely affects jaw movement.

Take Control of Your TMJ Health

Living with TMJ disorder can be painful and frustrating, but you don’t have to suffer in silence. Seeking treatment early can prevent complications and help you regain normal jaw function.

At Dr. Manu Dave Kacker DDS’s office in Westlake Village, CA, we provide personalized TMJ treatment plans to help relieve pain and restore comfort. If you’re experiencing TMJ symptoms, contact our office today to schedule a consultation.

Book an Appointment Today!

Don’t let jaw pain control your life. Call our office or visit our website to book your TMJ consultation with Dr. Manu Dave Kacker DDS in Westlake Village, CA!