Jaw pain and clicking: Diagnosis and definitive solutions

Do you feel that annoying click when you yawn or have headaches that start right at the temple? Jaw pain is not just a problem of discomfort, it can limit your ability to eat, speak, and even sleep. At Viamed, we understand how frustrating it is to live with chronic pain and we are here to offer you an accurate diagnosis and the definitive solution to recover your quality of life.

This article has had the collaboration and technical review of Dr. Eduard Mirada, maxillofacial surgeon at the Viamed Tarragona Hospital, specialist in the treatment of TMJ.

What is Jaw Pain and TMJ?

Jaw pain is frequently associated with Temporomandibular Joint Dysfunction (TMD)which is an alteration in the functioning of this complex union.

The TMJ is, in fact, the most used joint in the body, as it connects the temporal bone of the skull to the jaw. When this joint, or the muscles that surround it, do not work correctly, we speak of TMD. This syndrome encompasses a variety of problems that affect the chewing muscles, the joint itself, or both, directly impacting the patient’s daily routine.

Symptoms and Warning Signs that you should not ignore

The key symptom of Temporomandibular Dysfunction is pain when chewing or speaking, often accompanied by an audible clicking or crackling in the ear area.

It is essential to recognize the warning signs to seek specialized care in time. Although the intensity of the pain varies, the most common signs include:

• Constant facial pain: Which can spread to the ear, temple or neck.
• Joint noises: Clicks, clicks or feeling of grit (crepitation) when opening or closing the mouth.
• Limitation of mobility: Difficulty opening your mouth fully or feeling like your jaw is hanging blocks temporarily.
• Tension headaches: Common, often confused with migraines, which are concentrated in the temples or the top of the head.
• Ear pain: Sometimes misdiagnosed as otitis, but without infection.
• Tinnitus: Presence of ringing or noises in the ear.

Causes and Risk Factors of Jaw Pain

The main cause of TMJ Dysfunction Syndrome is usually muscle overload, which is closely related to chronic stress and inappropriate habits, such as chewing hard foods, chewing gum, drugs…

The origin of jaw pain is often multifactorial. Viamed specialists delve into the diagnosis to understand what is causing the tension and imbalance of the ATM. The most common risk factors include:

• Bruxism: The unconscious habit of clenching or grinding teethespecially during sleep, puts excessive pressure on the muscles and joint.
• Trauma: Direct blows or previous injuries to the face, jaw or neck.
• Malocclusion: When the upper and lower teeth do not fit together correctly.
• Stress and Anxiety: Emotional tensions are frequently channeled into the orofacial musculaturecausing sustained contractions and pain.
• Osteoarthritis or Arthritis: Inflammatory conditions that can affect the cartilage of the joint.

Treatment at Viamed: Specialized TMJ Units

Viamed’s most advanced and effective treatment for TMD is a multidisciplinary approach that combines advanced conservative techniques with minimally invasive surgery.

At Viamed, we have Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery Units highly specialized and we work in coordination with expert dentists and physiotherapists. Our goal is always non-invasive conservative treatment in the first instance, reserving surgery for the most complex cases.

Our comprehensive approach includes:

• Advanced Diagnostics: We use technology magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and tomography (CBCT) to obtain a clear image of the condition of the disc, bone and articular cartilage.
• Conservative Therapies:
  • Custom discharge splints: Designed to relax the muscles and avoid the harmful effects of bruxism.
  • Specialized physiotherapy: Manual techniques and exercises to re-educate posture and jaw function.
• Minimally Invasive Surgical Approach:
  • Arthrocentesis: A lavage of the joint to remove inflammatory substances, generally very effective in reducing acute pain.
  • TMJ arthroscopy: If the disc is displaced or there are adhesions, our maxillofacial surgeons perform an intervention with fine instruments through minimal incisions, allowing precise visualization and much faster recovery than open surgery.

We put at your disposal latest generation equipment and the humane treatment that you deserve, guaranteeing rapid management of your diagnosis and treatment plan.

Tips for Pain Management and Prevention

Initial management of jaw pain includes applying moist heat to the area, a temporary soft diet, and practicing relaxation exercises for the orofacial muscles.

Adopting healthy habits can significantly reduce the frequency and intensity of painful episodes:

• Soft Diet: Avoid hard, sticky foods or foods that require you to open your mouth excessively (whole apples, chewing gum).
• Avoid bad habits: Don’t bite your nails or rest your chin on your hand.
• Stress Management: Incorporates relaxation techniques (yoga, mindfulness); Stress control is key to reducing daytime bruxism.
• Position: Pay attention to the position of your head and neck, especially if you work long hours in front of the computer.

If symptoms persist or worsen, we invite you to Request your Appointment Online with one of our specialists.

At Viamed Salud, our priority is for you to enjoy your meals and your daily life again without pain. Don’t let jaw pain limit your well-being. Trust in cutting-edge technology and the humane treatment of our specialists.

Request a comprehensive assessment today at our nearest center. We will be happy to help you diagnose and treat your TMD accurately and effectively.

Frequently asked questions