TMJ Disorder
Temporomandibular disorder covers pain and dysfunction of the jaw joints and the muscles that move them. It's common, often misdiagnosed as sinus or ear trouble, and usually responds well to conservative treatment.
Ready to book your appointment?
Send us your details and we'll be in touch — usually within one working day.
Mostly muscular, and mostly manageable.
The large majority of TMD is myofascial — overworked muscles from clenching, grinding and stress, rather than damage inside the joint. That's good news, because muscles respond to splints, heat, exercises and habit change.
We start conservatively and escalate only if needed. Irreversible treatment such as extensive bite adjustment or surgery is a last resort, never a starting point.
Symptoms of TMD.
The signs vary, but most people notice one or more of these:
- 01Aching in front of the ear or at the temples
- 02Morning jaw stiffness or tightness
- 03Clicking, popping or grating
- 04Limited or uneven opening
- 05Headaches, especially on waking
- 06Earache with normal ear examination
Where it comes from.
The most common culprits:
Don't wait it out.
Speak to your our practice dentist if you're experiencing any of the following — book an appointment as soon as you can:
- —Jaw pain has lasted more than two weeks.
- —Your jaw locks or catches when opening.
- —You wake with facial or temple ache.
- —Chewing has become tiring or painful.
In discomfort right now?
Sudden locking, inability to close, or severe pain following trauma needs urgent assessment — contact us straight away or attend A&E if the jaw is locked open.
A plan, not a quick fix.
We examine joints, muscles and bite, take images if indicated, and start with a custom splint, targeted exercises, heat and habit advice. Persistent cases are referred for physiotherapy or specialist care.
