TMJ treatment is one of the most common concerns patients raise when visiting their dentist for jaw pain, clicking sounds, or frequent headaches. The temporomandibular joint (TMJ) is the hinge connecting your jawbone to your skull, and when it doesn’t function properly, it can cause a condition called temporomandibular disorder (TMD). Symptoms may include jaw pain, popping, headaches, earaches, or difficulty chewing.
At Gold Coast Dental, our providers often see patients who have lived with jaw pain for years before finally seeking care. If you’re searching for “TMJ treatment near me” or wondering whether your ear pain is linked to your jaw, this guide will give you the answers you need. Whether you’re in Southern California or at our Dallas dental office, you can always find your nearest dental office location for professional help.
This article will explain what TMJ disorders are, how dentists diagnose them, treatment options ranging from nightguards to surgery, and lifestyle adjustments to reduce symptoms.
What Is a TMJ Disorder?
TMJ disorder, or TMD, occurs when the jaw joint or its surrounding muscles don’t work smoothly. This joint acts like a sliding hinge, allowing you to open and close your mouth for chewing, speaking, and yawning. Problems in this area can arise from:
- Teeth grinding (bruxism)
- Misaligned bite
- Arthritis in the joint
- Stress and muscle tension
- Jaw injury or trauma
According to the National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research (NIDCR), an estimated 5–12% of adults experience TMJ disorders each year, with women more likely than men to develop the condition (NIDCR, 2023).
Why Does My Jaw Hurt When I Chew Tough Foods?
TMJ treatment often starts with understanding muscle strain. When chewing hard foods like steak or bagels, the temporomandibular joint experiences added pressure. This stress can inflame the joint or cause microtears in surrounding muscles. Patients with TMD frequently describe this pain as dull, radiating, or sharp during meals.
A soft diet—soups, yogurt, smoothies—can give your jaw a chance to recover. Warm compresses and NSAIDs also ease inflammation.
Can My Dentist Help With My Clicking Jaw?
Yes. Dentists trained in treatment of TMJ problems can evaluate your bite, check for tooth grinding, and recommend therapies such as:
- Custom nightguards (occlusal splints) to prevent grinding at night
- Jaw exercises guided by a physical therapist
- Mouth splint therapy to reposition your jaw during healing
As Gold Coast doctors explain:
“Dentists agree that custom nightguards and targeted jaw exercises are effective, non-invasive ways to ease TMJ pain and restore comfortable jaw movement.”
Is My Ear Pain Linked to a TMJ Problem?
Pain near your ear when opening your mouth can indeed signal TMJ issues. The temporomandibular joint sits right in front of the ear canal, so inflammation often radiates to the ear. Patients sometimes think they have an ear infection, but the real culprit is jaw muscle strain.
How Do I Know If My Jaw Pain Needs a Dentist?
If you experience any of the following, it’s time to see a dentist:
- Jaw locking when chewing
- Pain near your ear or temple
- Headaches from jaw pain
- Jaw clicking or popping only on one side
- Teeth grinding causing jaw pain
A dentist can run diagnostic imaging such as X-rays, CBCT scans, or MRIs to rule out other causes and confirm TMD.
Why Does My Jaw Feel Tight After Sleeping?
Jaw tightness after sleep often comes from teeth grinding or clenching during the night. Known as bruxism, this habit strains the joint and surrounding muscles. Over time, it can wear down tooth enamel, cause gum recession, and lead to TMJ disorder. A custom-fitted nightguard is one of the best TMJ disorder management tools.
Can Braces or Dental Work Cause TMJ Issues?
Yes—temporary bite changes during orthodontics can sometimes stress the TMJ. Ill-fitting crowns, bridges, or dentures may also alter your bite, causing jaw imbalance. However, modern orthodontic planning helps reduce these risks. If you suspect new dental work is causing discomfort, talk with your dentist right away.
What’s the Best Mouthguard for TMJ Relief?
The best option is a custom-made occlusal splint. Unlike over-the-counter guards, dentist-made splints:
- Fit comfortably to your teeth
- Guide your jaw into a healthier position
- Reduce muscle clenching overnight
Research shows that occlusal splints can reduce pain and improve jaw function in 70–90% of patients with mild to moderate TMD (Okeson, 2020).
Why Does My Jaw Pop Only on One Side?
Uneven popping usually means one joint is more affected than the other. This may be due to a slipped disc in the joint, muscle imbalance, or past trauma. A dentist may recommend MRI imaging to assess the disc and provide targeted treatment.
Can TMJ Cause My Teeth to Feel Sensitive?
Yes. Clenching can expose dentin by wearing down enamel, making teeth more sensitive to hot, cold, or sweet foods. In these cases, TMJ treatment often includes restoring worn enamel and prescribing a splint to stop grinding. If you need restorative work, ask your dentist about affordable dental implants or crowns as part of your care plan.
How Does a Dentist Diagnose TMJ Disorders?
Diagnosis involves:
- Reviewing your medical and dental history
- Checking bite alignment and muscle tenderness
- Listening for jaw clicks or pops
- Ordering X-rays or MRI scans if needed
This full assessment ensures accurate diagnosis and treatment planning.
Why Is My Jaw So Sore After Stressful Days?
Stress often causes unconscious clenching, raising tension in the jaw muscles. Patients commonly report worse pain after work deadlines or emotional strain. Relaxation techniques, mindfulness, and cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) can help reduce clenching habits.
Are There Dental Exercises to Fix TMJ Pain?
Yes. A physical therapist or dentist may guide you through:
- Controlled opening and closing
- Jaw relaxation stretches
- Resistance training with the tongue
These exercises improve mobility and reduce strain.
TMJ Treatment Options
Treatment depends on severity. Options include:
- Lifestyle changes: Soft diet, warm compresses, stress reduction
- Medication: NSAIDs, muscle relaxants, Botox injections for severe muscle spasms
- Physical therapy: Stretches, massage, posture correction
- Minimally invasive procedures:
- Arthrocentesis procedure (joint flushing)
- TMJ arthroscopy (tiny camera surgery)
- Major surgery: Joint replacement (rare)
Worsening Factors to Avoid
- Chewing gum frequently
- Poor posture at desks
- Stress and anxiety
- Nail biting or chewing ice
- Sleeping face down with jaw pressure
How Long Does TMJ Therapy Take?
Mild cases improve in 4–6 weeks with conservative care. More complex cases may take 3–6 months of therapy. Surgery is only considered if conservative methods fail.
Cost of TMJ Treatment
Costs vary:
- Nightguards: $400–$800
- Botox for TMJ: $300–$600 per session
- Arthrocentesis: $1,000–$2,500
- TMJ surgery: $5,000–$30,000
Insurance may cover part of treatment if medically necessary. Always ask your provider for an estimate before starting.
Quick Checklist: Do You Need TMJ Treatment?
- Do you hear clicking or popping when you chew? [ ] Yes [ ] No
- Does your jaw lock when eating? [ ] Yes [ ] No
- Do you wake up with sore jaw muscles? [ ] Yes [ ] No
- Do you get headaches linked to jaw tension? [ ] Yes [ ] No
If you answered “Yes” to any of these, schedule an appointment with a TMJ specialist at Gold Coast Dental.
FAQ
Can my jaw pain from TMJ go away on its own?
Yes, mild cases may improve with rest and lifestyle changes, but persistent symptoms need treatment.
How does a dentist figure out if I have a TMJ disorder?
Through history, physical exam, and imaging like X-rays or MRIs.
Will wearing a dental splint for TMJ feel uncomfortable?
Most patients adjust quickly to custom splints, which are more comfortable than store-bought guards.
Can bad posture really make my TMJ symptoms worse?
Yes. Poor posture strains neck and jaw muscles, worsening TMJ issues.
How long does it take to see results from TMJ treatment?
Relief often begins in a few weeks, but lasting results may take several months.
Is TMJ pain linked to my frequent tension headaches?
Yes. Jaw muscle strain can radiate into the temples and trigger headaches.
Final Call
TMJ treatment can ease jaw pain, reduce headaches, and improve sleep. If you’re ready for expert care, visit check our locations page to find your nearest Gold Coast Dental location across California and Texas. You can call us now or book a session, and don’t forget to read our local guide or read more about dental care in your area for practical tips.
References
- National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research. (2023). TMJ Disorders. https://www.nidcr.nih.gov
- Okeson, J. P. (2020). Management of Temporomandibular Disorders and Occlusion. Mosby.
- Scrivani, S. J., Keith, D. A., & Kaban, L. B. (2008). Temporomandibular disorders. New England Journal of Medicine, 359(25), 2693–2705. https://doi.org/10.1056/NEJMra0707707
Last reviewed September 2025.
