23 Dec TMJ Can Be a Serious Problem, Here’s How a Dentist Can Help
With over 12 million Americans suffering from some sort of TMJ disorder, jaw pain is a very common complaint. In fact as dentists, we notice the symptoms quite often. But it’s no surprise to us—your jaw is getting a workout every time you use your mouth to yawn, talk, or chew. And if you have a misaligned bite or you’re grinding your teeth while you sleep, the problem will only get worse.
Here’s how our dentists can treat TMJ disorders and help you get rid of your pain.
What Causes TMJ Disorders?
The temporomandibular joint is a sliding hinge joint that attaches your lower jawbone to your skull. The skull and jawbone are attached with cartilage, and a small disc of softer tissue in the joint helps keep your mouth movements smooth.
The acronyms TMJ and TMD are often used interchangeably when talking about disorders that affect the jaw. “TMJ” refers to the temporomandibular joint itself. “TMD” refers to temporomandibular joint disorders.
Jaw pain can happen when:
- The disc moves in the wrong way or becomes weak
- There has been damage from injuries
- Arthritis affects the cartilage
- The jaw muscles are weakened
- The muscles are overworked from repeated stressors (gum chewing, nail biting, clenching, or grinding).
- There is damage to the soft tissues from smoking or vaping
How Can a Dentist Treat TMJ Disorders and Jaw Pain?
First, you will need a diagnosis. Your dentist will determine if you have a temporomandibular joint disorder by talking to you about your symptoms and examining your mouth and jaw. They will feel your jaw, measure its range of motion, and listen for any clicking or popping when you open or close your mouth. They might also recommend x-rays or digital scans, to get a closer look at the interior structure.
Next, they will recommend a treatment plan. For some, at-home care is enough to ease the discomfort. Others may need braces or clear aligners to correct their bite, or a custom-fitted mouth guard to help their jaw relax while they sleep.
Treatments for TMJ Disorders
You may need to see your primary care provider for prescription medications or surgical treatments. Making some lifestyle changes like eating softer food and getting better sleep can help, too.
Medications for TMD
- Over-the-counter medications like acetaminophen, ibuprofen, or naproxen can ease the pain associated with TMD.
- Muscle relaxers can help relax the muscles and ease symptoms of the TMDs
- Tricyclic antidepressants, while commonly used to treat depression, can also be used to ease the pain in the jaw in low doses.
Surgical Treatments
- Corticosteroid injections into the affected joints can help ease inflammation and pain.
- Arthrocentesis can help remove inflammatory byproducts by inserting small needles into the joint.
- Arthroscopy on the TMJ can cut away scar tissue that may be the cause of jaw pain.
- Open joint surgery is used only when all other methods fail, as there are significant risks.
Lifestyle Changes
- Quit smoking or vaping.
- Reduce your stress levels (we know this is easier said than done).
- Eat softer foods that require less chewing.
- Wear a mouth guard if you grind your teeth during the night.
TMJ Treatments in Prescott, Arizona
Here at Hicks Dental Group, we know the impact jaw pain can have on your daily life. If you have an undiagnosed TMJ disorder, we may be able to treat it. Give us a call to make an appointment, and we’ll help you find relief from the pain.
Photo by engin akyurt on Unsplash used with permission under the creative commons license for commercial use 12/23/25.