TMJ, or temporomandibular joint disorder, is a group of problems that affect the jaw’s movement and the muscles of chewing (masticatory muscles). TMD symptoms include pain and a clicking, popping, or grating sensation when opening or closing the mouth. Most cases of TMD are mild to moderate, and most treatments are non-invasive.

TMD symptoms often develop over time. They may be caused by a combination of factors such as stress, bite problems, arthritis, or an injury to the head or neck. The condition is most common in people between 20 and 40, and it occurs twice as frequently in women as men.

TMJ Disorder: Symptoms, Causes, and Treatment Options

A person with TMJ may be able to reduce their symptoms by practicing relaxation techniques, eliminating hard or chewy foods that overwork the joint, and using a soft pillow to support the neck and head during sleep. They may also try exercises that stretch and strengthen the jaw muscles, use a warm compress on the joint, or take anti-inflammatory medications like ibuprofen to relieve pain. In some cases, a dentist or doctor may recommend wearing a mouth guard or splint at night to protect the teeth and jaw while sleeping, or taking a muscle relaxant to treat bruxism or clenching.

If non-invasive treatment options don’t work, a dentist or doctor may recommend a procedure called arthrocentesis (ahr-throe-sen-TEE-sis) to help diagnose the problem and rule out other problems. Another treatment option is TMJ arthroscopy, in which a doctor inserts a small tube into the joint space with a camera attached to view and evaluate the area.