Jaw joint problem (TMJ disorder)

Overview

The jaw joint (temporomandibular joint) sits in front of each ear.

Clenching, grinding, stress, injury, and arthritis can strain it.

Symptoms

Common signs:

• Jaw pain, clicking, or teeth clenching
• Headache at the temples

Less common

• Earache
• Headache
• Jaw locking

Look up a symptom: Grinding or clenching teeth · Headache · Headache at the temples · Jaw pain, clicking, or teeth clenching

When to get medical care

Causes

Clenching, grinding, stress, injury, and arthritis.

Does it spread or run in families?

• It isn't contagious. You can't catch it from someone else.

Who is more likely to get it

• Stress
• Grinding

Possible complications

• Teeth grinding

Diagnosis

A dentist or doctor checks your jaw.

Questions you may be asked

• Clenching or grinding
• Injury

The exam

Feeling the joint while you open and close.

Tests

Tests, if needed:

• Imaging: Only if needed.

Treatment

Rest your jaw.

Self-care

• Eat soft foods; skip gum
• Use warm or cold packs
• Avoid wide yawns
• Relax your jaw: lips together, teeth apart

Medicines

Medicines that may help:

OwieClear doesn't give doses: follow the label or your healthcare professional. Medicine names here are examples, not a full list.

A night guard, physical therapy, or stress care can help.

Prevention

To protect the jaw:

• Manage stress
• Don't chew gum often

Which doctor treats this

• Start with your dentist.
• They may send you to a dentist or an oral surgeon.
• A physical therapist can help with exercises to rebuild strength and motion.

Back to school, work, or sports

• Most people can go back to school or work the same day or the next day.

Pregnancy and breastfeeding

• If you're pregnant or planning to be, tell your prenatal provider about this condition.
• Don't start or stop any medicine on your own. Some are safe in pregnancy and some need to be changed.
• Ask before taking any pain reliever. The FDA advises avoiding ibuprofen and naproxen after 20 weeks unless your doctor says to.
• Breastfeeding: Most medicines are fine, but ask. The NIH LactMed database lists what's known about each one.

Outlook

Most people get better without surgery.

Getting ready for your visit

Bring a list of your symptoms and medicines.

Questions to ask

• Would a night guard help?

Research studies

Research studies test new ways to find and treat health problems. Some are looking for volunteers. Talk with your doctor before joining one.

Search ClinicalTrials.gov for studies on Jaw joint problem (TMJ disorder)