If your jaw clicks, locks, or hurts, TMJ treatment in Houston and Richmond, TX, may help. The temporomandibular joint (TMJ) is the small hinge that connects your lower jaw to your skull. When this jaw joint or the nearby jaw muscles do not work as they should, you can feel pain, tightness, and problems with jaw movement. This guide explains common TMJ symptoms, causes, diagnosis, and TMJ treatment options so you know what to expect.
What Is a TMJ Disorder?
The TMJ is used every time you chew, talk, yawn, or smile. A TMJ disorder occurs when the joint or nearby muscles do not work properly, which can cause jaw pain, soreness, trouble opening or closing your mouth, and changes in how your teeth meet. Even a small problem in the temporomandibular joint can lead to discomfort and may affect your bite over time.
Common TMJ Symptoms
TMJ symptoms can start mild and slowly get worse. It helps to notice early signs so you can get an evaluation and care before the problem grows.
You may have a TMJ disorder if you notice:
- Jaw pain or soreness in the cheeks, jaw, or chin
- Clicking or popping sounds when you open or close your mouth
- The jaw feeling “stuck” or jaw locking open or closed
- Tight or tired jaw muscles
- Trouble chewing certain foods or chewing on one side
- Frequent headaches, often near the temples
- Neck or shoulder pain
- Ear pain, ringing, or a full feeling in the ears
These symptoms can make it hard to chew, speak, or even smile for long. The good news is that with the right treatment plan, many patients find real, lasting relief.
What Causes TMJ Disorders?
A TMJ disorder often has more than one cause. In many cases, several small problems add up over time. At Elara Orthodontics, we look at your whole jaw system, not just one area.
1. Grinding and Clenching (Bruxism)
Bruxism is the habit of grinding or clenching your teeth, often at night or during stressful moments. This habit puts heavy pressure on the jaw joint, strains the jaw muscles, and can cause worn teeth, muscle spasms, and morning headaches. Over time, bruxism can worsen tmj pain and jaw tension.
2. Bite Problems and Jaw Alignment
When your bite is not balanced, the jaw joint must work harder with every chew or swallow. This added strain can cause joint pain, muscle fatigue, clicking or popping sounds, and long-term jaw dysfunction. Orthodontic care that improves bite and jaw alignment can help manage temporomandibular disorders.
3. Injury or Overuse
Jaw injuries from accidents, falls, or opening the mouth too wide can damage the joint. Overuse habits like chewing gum all day, eating tough foods, or biting nails and ice can also irritate the joint. These actions increase inflammation and soreness. According to Dr. Alex Levine, a well-known orthodontist in Fort Myers, FL, cutting back on gum, ice, and very tough foods can give the jaw joint a chance to calm down and heal.
4. Arthritis and Other Health Conditions
The TMJ can be affected by arthritis and other joint conditions, leading to swelling, inflammation, stiffness, and long-term joint pain. Your medical history plays an important role in TMJ diagnosis and treatment planning.
5. Stress and Muscle Tension
High stress often leads to tight neck and jaw muscles. You may hold tension in your face or clench your teeth without noticing. This constant tightness adds strain to the jaw joint and can make tmj symptoms worse.
When Should You See a TMJ Specialist?
You should consider a consultation for TMJ treatment at Elara Orthodontics in Houston or Richmond if:
- Jaw pain or jaw soreness lasts more than a few days
- You hear frequent clicking or popping sounds, especially with pain
- Your jaw locks or gets stuck open or closed
- You have frequent headaches, neck pain, or ear pain
- Chewing has become hard or uncomfortable
Early care can protect your jaw joint and may prevent more serious TMJ problems in the future.
TMJ Examination and Diagnosis at Elara Orthodontics
At Elara Orthodontics, TMJ care starts with a careful examination and a clear, step-by-step treatment plan. We want to understand the full picture before we start therapy.
1. Health and Symptom Review
Your doctor will ask about:
- Your main tmj symptoms and when they began
- Any jaw injuries or past accidents
- Your sleep habits and stress levels
- Any known grinding or clenching
- Neck pain, ear pain, or frequent headaches
This first talk helps us see how the tmj disorder affects your daily life and which treatment options may help most.
2. Physical Examination of the Jaw and Muscles
Next, we gently check your jaw, cheeks, and neck. During this exam, we will:
- Press on the jaw joint to look for tenderness
- Feel the jaw muscles for tight spots or muscle spasms
- Listen for clicking or popping when you open and close
- Watch your jaw movement as you move side to side and open wide
This examination shows us how the joints and muscles are working together and helps guide your pain management plan.
3. Bite and Jaw Alignment Check
Because your bite affects the health of your jaw joint, we also check for:
- Overbites, underbites, or crossbites
- Teeth that look worn or chipped from grinding
- Signs of bruxism, like flat teeth edges or notches
- Shifts in the jaw when you close your mouth
Improving jaw alignment can play a big role in long-term pain relief and joint health.
4. Imaging (If Needed)
Sometimes we may use imaging tools, such as X‑rays or other scans, to see the bones and joint space more clearly. These images can show:
- Joint wear or arthritis
- The shape and position of the jaw joint
- Signs of joint damage or chronic inflammation
Imaging supports a clear diagnosis of a tmj disorder so we can plan safe, effective care.
Non-Surgical TMJ Treatment Options
Most TMJ problems do not need surgery. At Elara Orthodontics, we start with gentle, non-surgical treatment options that focus on healing, pain relief, and better function.
1. TMJ Mouthguard, Night Guard, and Splints
A custom tmj mouthguard, night guard, or splint is one of the most common tools for TMJ care. This type of appliance:
- Fits over your teeth (upper, lower, or both)
- Helps stop grinding and clenching
- Reduces pressure on the jaw joint
- Supports muscle relaxation and rest
This is called appliance therapy. Wearing your guard, especially at night, can protect your teeth and help calm tmj pain.
2. Physical Therapy and Exercises
Targeted therapy and home exercises can improve jaw movement and comfort. These may include:
- Gentle stretching exercises to increase your opening range
- Posture training to reduce strain on your neck and jaw
- Light movement drills to improve joint control
These steps help reduce muscle tension, support muscle relaxation, and can improve jaw function over time. Some patients benefit from working with a physical therapist as part of their overall pain management plan.
3. Medication and Pain Relievers
For short-term relief of strong pain or tightness, your doctor may suggest:
- Over-the-counter pain relievers
- Anti-inflammatory medication to reduce swelling and inflammation
- Short-term muscle relaxants for severe muscle spasms
These medicines are usually used along with other care, such as splints and exercises, not alone.
4. Stress and Habit Changes
Because stress and habits often play a big role in TMJ disorders, your plan may include:
- Stress reduction methods, like deep breathing or short stretch breaks
- Avoiding gum, nail biting, and chewing on pens or ice
- Choosing softer foods when your jaw is sore
These simple changes can greatly reduce daily stress on the joint and help your other treatments work better.
5. Other Supportive Therapies
In some cases, we may talk with you about extra options, such as:
- Acupuncture to help manage chronic jaw pain or headaches
- Referral to a pain specialist or other provider for advanced pain management
We will always explain your options and help you decide what fits best with your needs and comfort level.
Advanced TMJ Care and Jaw Alignment
If basic care is not enough, we may look at more advanced steps, especially if your TMJ problem is linked to your bite.
Orthodontic Treatment for Bite Problems
If your TMJ disorder is tied to bite or jaw alignment, orthodontics may help. Straightening your teeth and balancing your bite can:
- Spread chewing forces more evenly
- Reduce strain on the jaw joint and muscles
- Improve how your top and bottom teeth meet
Over time, this can have a strong, lasting impact on tmj pain and overall jaw comfort.
Is TMJ Surgery Needed?
Most people with temporomandibular disorders do not need surgery. Surgery is only considered when:
- There is severe joint damage
- The jaw cannot open or close in a normal way
- All other treatment options have not reduced the pain
If surgery is ever discussed, your doctor at Elara Orthodontics will explain the risks and possible benefits in clear terms. Our focus stays on the least invasive options that can safely give you the most relief.
How Long Does TMJ Treatment Take?
The length of TMJ treatment depends on several factors, such as:
- The main causes of your tmj disorder
- How long you have had symptoms
- Your daily habits and stress level
- How well you follow your treatment plan and home care
Some people feel better within a few weeks using a night guard, habit changes, and basic exercises. Others may need several months of combined appliance therapy, stretching exercises, and bite correction to reach long-term relief.
We will check your progress at each visit and adjust your plan as needed.
Why Choose Elara Orthodontics for TMJ Treatment?
At Elara Orthodontics in Houston and Richmond, TX, we focus on more than just your teeth. We look at your whole jaw system: joints, muscles, bite, and habits. Our TMJ care includes:
- Careful examination and accurate diagnosis
- Clear, easy-to-follow treatment plans
- Gentle, effective therapy tailored to your needs
- A friendly dentist office team that explains each step
We aim to reduce your pain, improve your jaw movement, and protect your long-term joint health.
Get Lasting Relief with Personalized TMJ Care
You do not have to live with ongoing jaw pain, headaches, or clicking every time you chew. At Elara Orthodontics in Houston and Richmond, TX, our team provides personalized TMJ treatment plans that address the real sources of your TMJ pain, including bite problems, muscle tension, and habits like grinding and clenching. With the right mix of TMJ mouthguards, splints, exercises, medication, and orthodontic care, many patients return to pain-free chewing, speaking, and smiling.
Schedule your consultation today and take the first step toward lasting relief, better jaw health, and a more comfortable life.
About the Authors
Dr. Sam Elkenawy – Orthodontist in Houston and Richmond, TX
Dr. Alex Levine – Orthodontist in Fort Myers, FL
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does TMJ treatment take?
TMJ treatment time varies based on the cause and severity of your symptoms. Some patients feel relief within a few weeks using a night guard, exercises, and habit changes. Others may need several months of combined care for long-term improvement.
Can TMJ go away on its own?
Mild TMJ symptoms can sometimes improve on their own with rest and reduced jaw strain. However, ongoing pain, clicking, or jaw locking usually needs professional care. Early treatment helps prevent the condition from getting worse.
What triggers TMJ pain to flare up?
TMJ pain often flares up from teeth grinding, jaw clenching, stress, or chewing tough foods. Poor posture, gum chewing, and jaw overuse can also increase symptoms. Managing these triggers can help reduce flare-ups.
