The TMJ (temporomandibular joint) is what allows your mouth to open and close, as well as speak and chew normally. It’s an intricate, complex network of muscles and joints that contribute to the movement of both your jaw and mouth. The temporomandibular joint is located on each side of the head and connects the rest of the skull to the mobile jawbone (mandible). Each temporomandibular joint has a delicate disc separating a ball and socket mechanism, similar to the knee or shoulder joint. The disc cushions the pressure while the jaw opens and rotates. If a problem occurs in this complex musculoskeletal system, it can feel extremely painful and tense. This is referred to as temporomandibular disorder, TMJ disorder, or simply “TMD.”

Symptoms of TMD

• Jaw Pain and Clicking
  
  One of the most reported symptoms of TMJ disorder is discomfort, especially when chewing. This pain is usually located in the jaw joint on one or both sides of the head and is usually the result of inflammation. Another common symptom that TMJ patients experience is jaw clicking, accompanied by pain and a “tired” feeling in the face, neck, shoulder, and upper back region.
   
• Chronic Headaches and Migraines
  
  Some TMJ sufferers experience headaches and migraines as a result of chronic TMJ issues. These are usually caused by the tension and inflammation of the delicate muscles that make up the TMJ, which include the Temporalis Masseter muscles (responsible for closing the jaw), and the lateral Pterygoid (which holds the jaw in position so that the teeth can meet).
   
• Jaw Locking
  
  In some severe cases, the jaw can become locked in place because of inflammation of the disc, making it difficult to open or shut your mouth all the way. It can also get “stuck” in place when you try to open your mouth too wide. The locking occurs when the disc separating the upper and lower bones of the TMJ gets caught in a position that does not allow the joint to move.
   
• Ear, Sinus, and Neck Pain
  
  It’s common for TMJ pain to radiate to other areas of the body, including the ears, sinuses, neck, and shoulders. If you experience tension or aches in these areas, it can be the result of a TMJ disorder.

TMJ Disorder Treatments 

There are several TMJ treatment options available to relieve pain. If you are seeking TMJ treatment in Auckland, you may benefit from one or more of the following:

• Oral Devices
  
  Using devices such as mouth guards, oral splints, and oral deprogrammers can help prevent damage to your teeth and joints associated with TMJ disorders, as well as bruxism (clenching of the teeth). Additionally, they can support and stabilise your muscles and joints to keep your teeth in the correct place when you close your mouth.
   
• Medications and Botox Treatment
  
  There are a number of medications that can be helpful in treating TMJ disorders and relieving symptoms, such as muscle relaxers, anti-inflammatory drugs, and Botox. Botox can prevent muscle movements through neuromodulation, meaning the TMJ can effectively recover from inflammation and discomfort. Botox therapy is excellent for acute pain and lasts 3-5 months.
   
• Relaxation Techniques, Strengthening Exercises, and Massage
  
  Special exercises can help you get relief at home by relaxing the joints and muscles and reducing inflammation. With regular use, these exercises can train the jaw muscles to move without discomfort and relieve tension. Performing a series of exercises for approximately 5-10 minutes each day can stretch the muscles and relax the surrounding areas.
   
• Lifestyle Changes
  
  Lifestyle changes can help manage TMJ disorders and relieve symptoms. In most cases, TMJ disorders go hand-in-hand with stress, so managing stress in your lifestyle can be a great way to start. These changes can also include managing discomfort (and reducing inflammation) with hot or cold packs, avoiding gum or chewy candy, and eating softer foods regularly.