Jaw Ache Treatment (TMJ) Orange

When we close our mouth, that’s known as our bite, and the dental term is occlusion. It can be well-aligned or misaligned. When it’s misaligned, stress builds up in the jaw muscles, eventually pressuring the nerves and causing pain.

• Clenching and/or grinding (some people do this in their sleep and don’t even know it!)
• Misaligned (crooked) teeth – a very common cause!
• Stress
• Sports injuries, car accidents, bar fights
• Poor sleeping habits
• Poor pillow or mattress support
• and so many more!

Your dentist will examine to find a neutral, relaxed jaw position. Once this has been determined there are a number of ways to make it permanent. Jaw Ache Treatment Strategies:

• Custom orthotic (mouthpiece) to retain jaw muscles
• Reshaping or moving teeth
• Anti-inflammatory drugs
• Physical therapy
• Avoid hard foods
• Psychotherapy to reduce stress
• Potential surgery if caused by injury or accident

In most cases, combinations of the treatments are utilised. If simpler neuromuscular treatments are not successful, more vigorous treatment can be used.