Temporomandibular Joint Disorders (TMJ) Treatment in Brea
The temporomandibular joint (TMJ) functions like a sliding hinge, connecting your jawbone to your skull and allowing movements such as opening, closing, and side-to-side motion of the jaw. You have one TMJ on each side of your jaw, and when these joints or the surrounding muscles are affected, it can lead to temporomandibular joint disorders (TMJ disorders or TMD). TMJ disorders can cause pain in the jaw joint itself, discomfort in the muscles that control jaw movement, and even affect daily activities such as eating, speaking, or yawning.
The causes of TMJ disorders are often multifactorial. Genetics, arthritis, jaw injury, or chronic stress can all play a role. Many individuals who experience jaw pain also clench or grind their teeth (bruxism), which can worsen joint irritation and muscle tension over time. Other contributing factors may include poor posture, dental misalignment, or repetitive jaw movements.
Common signs and symptoms of TMJ disorders include:
Pain or tenderness in the jaw
Pain in one or both temporomandibular joints
Aching pain in and around the ear
Difficulty chewing or pain while chewing
Facial pain or pressure
Locking of the joint, making it difficult to fully open or close the mouth
Clicking, popping, or grating sounds when moving the jaw
Dr. Tenckhoff provides gentle, non-surgical care for TMJ disorders in Brea, addressing both joint and muscular dysfunction. Treatments may include manual therapy, jaw exercises, posture guidance, and ergonomic adjustments to reduce tension and restore normal joint function. Combined with patient education and at-home exercises, this approach can help relieve pain, improve jaw mobility, and prevent future flare-ups.
By targeting both the TMJ and the surrounding muscles, patients often experience long-term relief, improved function, and better quality of life without invasive procedures.