Temporomandibular disorder affects the jaw joint and surrounding muscles, causing symptoms that may include discomfort, clicking, or restricted movement. Many cases respond well to conservative management.
The temporomandibular joint (TMJ) connects the lower jaw to the skull and plays a central role in everyday activities such as chewing, speaking, and yawning. When this joint or the muscles that control it become strained or dysfunctional, the resulting condition is known as temporomandibular disorder — commonly referred to as TMD.
TMD can produce a range of symptoms, from mild jaw stiffness to more persistent pain, clicking, or difficulty opening the mouth. The condition is relatively common and often develops gradually, with many individuals initially attributing their symptoms to stress or tension.
Professional assessment is important for identifying the contributing factors and determining the most appropriate management approach. Conservative treatment is often the first step and can be effective in reducing symptoms for many individuals.
The temporomandibular joint is a hinge-and-sliding joint located on each side of the head, just in front of the ears. It connects the mandible (lower jaw) to the temporal bone of the skull and is one of the most frequently used joints in the body.
This joint enables a wide range of movements — opening and closing the mouth, moving the jaw from side to side, and protruding it forward. A small disc of cartilage within the joint acts as a cushion, absorbing forces and allowing smooth movement.
When the joint, disc, or surrounding muscles are subjected to excessive strain, inflammation, or imbalance, the result can be discomfort, restricted movement, and the characteristic clicking or popping sounds associated with TMD.
TMD often has multiple contributing factors rather than a single identifiable cause. Understanding these factors can help guide assessment and inform management:
Persistent grinding or clenching places considerable mechanical stress on the jaw joint and surrounding muscles, and is one of the most commonly identified contributing factors in TMD.
Habitual clenching during the day — often during concentration or periods of stress — can lead to muscle fatigue and strain on the temporomandibular joint.
When the upper and lower teeth do not meet evenly, the jaw may be forced into a less natural position, placing uneven pressure on the joint and muscles.
Emotional stress can contribute to increased tension in the jaw and facial muscles, which may exacerbate joint discomfort and stiffness.
A previous injury to the jaw, face, or head may affect the structure or function of the temporomandibular joint, potentially contributing to ongoing symptoms.
A thorough dental assessment can help identify which factors may be relevant in your case and guide the most appropriate course of management.
TMD can present with a variety of symptoms that may develop gradually or fluctuate in intensity. Common signs include:
Aching or soreness in the jaw joint area or surrounding muscles, which may be constant or triggered by chewing, speaking, or opening the mouth widely.
Audible clicking, popping, or grating sounds from the jaw joint during movement. These may occur with or without associated discomfort.
Tension in the jaw muscles may radiate to the temples, forehead, or the sides of the head, contributing to persistent or recurrent headaches.
A sensation of fullness, aching, or ringing in the ears may occur due to the close proximity of the temporomandibular joint to the ear structures.
Difficulty opening the mouth fully or a sensation of the jaw catching or locking may indicate dysfunction within the joint.
The muscles around the jaw and face may feel tired or strained, particularly after eating, speaking for extended periods, or upon waking.
If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, a professional assessment can help determine whether TMD is the underlying cause and what steps may be appropriate.
The symptoms of TMD can overlap with other dental and medical conditions, making professional evaluation essential for accurate identification. A structured assessment allows your dentist to distinguish between joint-related, muscle-related, and other potential causes of your symptoms.
During the assessment, your dentist will evaluate the range of movement of the jaw, listen for joint sounds, and examine the muscles for tenderness. A bite assessment — also known as an occlusal analysis — can identify areas of uneven pressure that may be contributing to joint strain.
Where joint involvement is suspected, imaging such as radiographs or referral for more detailed scans may be recommended to provide a clearer picture of the joint structures.
Early evaluation supports a conservative management approach and may help prevent symptoms from progressing or becoming more complex to manage.
Conservative approaches are often recommended as a first line of management for TMD. The aim is to reduce strain on the jaw joint, alleviate muscle tension, and support improved joint function:
A thorough evaluation of how the upper and lower teeth meet can identify areas of uneven contact or imbalance that may be contributing to joint strain.
An occlusal splint or night guard can create a protective barrier between the teeth, helping to redistribute biting forces and reduce strain on the jaw joint and muscles.
Your dentist may provide guidance on habits and behaviours that can help minimise stress on the jaw joint, such as dietary adjustments, jaw relaxation techniques, and posture awareness.
Regular review appointments allow your dentist to track changes in symptoms and tooth wear, adjusting the management approach as needed.
Where bite imbalance is identified as a contributing factor, restorative options such as composite bonding or crown work may be discussed to improve how the teeth meet.
Your dentist will discuss the most suitable options based on your individual assessment, taking into account the nature and severity of your symptoms.
While many cases of TMD respond well to conservative dental management, some individuals may experience persistent or complex symptoms that require further investigation. In such cases, your dentist may consider referral to an appropriate specialist for additional assessment.
A multidisciplinary approach may be beneficial for more complex presentations, involving collaboration between dental and other healthcare professionals to ensure comprehensive management of your symptoms.
Jaw pain, clicking, or restricted movement should be professionally assessed to determine whether TMD is present and whether splint therapy or bite adjustment is appropriate. Our dental team can evaluate your jaw joint and bite and discuss the management options available to you.
Assessment and management of TMJ pain are available at our London clinics. You can attend our South Kensington dental clinic or our City of London clinic near St Paul's for a professional dental evaluation.
Many individuals with TMD find that their symptoms improve with conservative management. Identifying and addressing contributing factors — such as bruxism, bite imbalance, or jaw habits — can make a meaningful difference to comfort and function.
Night guards and occlusal splints may help reduce strain on the jaw joint by preventing direct tooth-to-tooth contact during sleep. When combined with guidance on reducing jaw strain, these conservative measures are often effective.
Some cases may require longer-term monitoring and ongoing management. Your dentist will discuss realistic expectations and work with you to develop an approach that aims to support improved joint function and comfort over time.
South Kensington Medical & Dental is registered with the Care Quality Commission (CQC) and our clinicians are registered with the relevant UK regulatory bodies, including the GDC and GMC. Our dentists, dental nurses and medical professionals deliver care that meets the highest clinical, safety and ethical standards, because our patients deserve nothing less.
