Dentist of Santa Rosa Explains Different Types of TMJ Disorders

If you experience jaw pain, clicking or popping when you open your mouth, difficulty chewing, or headaches around your temples or ears, you may be experiencing symptoms of a TMJ disorder.

The temporomandibular joints (TMJs) connect your lower jaw to your skull and allow you to talk, chew, yawn, and swallow. Because these joints are involved in many everyday movements, problems affecting the jaw joint or surrounding muscles can interfere with your comfort and daily activities.

At Santa Rosa Dentistry & Implant Center, we evaluate patients experiencing symptoms associated with TMJ disorders and recommend appropriate treatment based on the underlying cause.

What Is a TMJ Disorder?

TMJ disorders, also called temporomandibular disorders (TMDs), are a group of conditions affecting the jaw joints, jaw muscles, and surrounding structures. The National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research reports that TMDs include more than 30 conditions that can cause pain and dysfunction in the jaw joint and muscles that control jaw movement.

TMJ disorders can have different causes and may produce a variety of symptoms. Some people experience mild clicking or occasional discomfort, while others may have persistent jaw pain, headaches, limited jaw movement, or difficulty chewing.

A dental evaluation can help determine whether your symptoms may be related to a TMJ disorder and whether further examination or imaging is appropriate.

What Are the Different Types of TMJ Disorders?

TMJ disorders can generally be grouped into several categories, including:

• Myofascial pain disorders

• Internal derangement of the jaw joint

• Degenerative joint disorders

Understanding the differences between these conditions can help you recognize symptoms and know when it may be appropriate to seek professional evaluation.

1. Myofascial Pain Disorders

Myofascial pain involves discomfort or dysfunction in the jaw muscles rather than the joint itself. It is considered one of the most common types of TMJ disorders. The pain typically originates from the muscles that control jaw movement, especially the masseter and temporalis muscles.

Common Causes

• Teeth grinding or clenching (bruxism)

• Stress or anxiety

• Poor posture

• Sleep disturbances

When these muscles become strained or overworked, they can develop trigger points, which are tight areas of muscle that may cause pain in the jaw, temples, neck, or shoulders.

Typical Symptoms

• Dull or aching facial and jaw pain

• Pain when chewing

• Headaches near the temples

• Jaw muscle stiffness or fatigue

Myofascial pain can often be managed with conservative treatment. Depending on the cause, your dentist may recommend a custom night guard, jaw stretching exercises, stress-management techniques, or other therapies designed to reduce muscle tension.

2. Internal Derangement of the Joint

Internal derangement refers to a structural problem within the jaw joint, such as a displaced disc, dislocation, or injury to the joint’s internal components.

The TMJ contains a small cushioning disc that helps the jaw move smoothly. When this disc becomes displaced or damaged, the joint may not function normally.

Disc Displacement

Disc displacement occurs when the cushioning disc moves out of its normal position.

• Disc Displacement with Reduction: The disc moves out of position but returns during jaw movement, which may produce a clicking or popping sound.

• Disc Displacement Without Reduction: The disc remains displaced and may cause pain or make it difficult to open the mouth fully.

Dislocation or Injury

Trauma, such as a blow to the jaw or whiplash, may affect the TMJ. Opening the mouth excessively wide can also contribute to certain joint problems.

Typical Symptoms

• Clicking, popping, or grating sounds

• Jaw locking open or closed

• Difficulty opening the mouth

• Pain directly in front of the ear

If you experience these symptoms, a dental evaluation can help identify the underlying problem. Depending on your symptoms, your dentist may recommend a clinical examination and appropriate imaging. Treatment may include physical therapy, oral appliances, or other approaches based on the specific condition.

3. Degenerative Joint Disorders

Also known as osteoarthritis of the TMJ, degenerative joint disorders occur when the structures within the jaw joint gradually change or deteriorate.

Over time, these changes can contribute to inflammation, limited mobility, pain, and grinding or crunching sounds known as crepitus.

Common Causes and Risk Factors

• Natural aging

• Previous jaw injury

• Chronic teeth grinding

• Certain autoimmune conditions, such as rheumatoid arthritis

Typical Symptoms

• Persistent or worsening jaw pain

• Stiffness, especially in the morning

• Grinding or crunching sounds

• Reduced jaw movement

• Pain when chewing

Treatment for TMJ arthritis depends on the severity of symptoms and the underlying cause. Your dentist may work with your physician or rheumatologist when appropriate to develop a comprehensive treatment approach.

When Should You Seek Help for TMJ Symptoms?

Occasional jaw clicking without pain may not always require treatment. However, symptoms that interfere with daily activities, become worse over time, or cause significant discomfort should be evaluated.

Consider seeking professional care if you experience:

• Jaw pain that persists or worsens

• Difficulty opening or closing your mouth

• Frequent headaches or earaches associated with jaw discomfort

• Painful clicking or popping

• Nighttime teeth grinding or clenching

• Jaw locking

• Difficulty chewing

TMJ symptoms may also be identified during routine dental exams, particularly when signs such as excessive tooth wear or cracked teeth are present. If dental damage requires treatment, restorative dentistry may also be part of your overall care plan.

The team at Santa Rosa Dentistry & Implant Center can evaluate your symptoms, identify possible contributing factors, and recommend appropriate treatment options.

TMJ Treatment in Santa Rosa, CA

Treatment for TMJ disorders depends on the specific condition, symptoms, and individual needs. Conservative treatment may include:

• Custom oral appliances or night guards

• Jaw exercises

• Physical therapy

• Strategies to reduce clenching and grinding

• Lifestyle and habit modifications

• Treatment of contributing dental conditions

More advanced cases may require additional evaluation or specialized treatment.

At Santa Rosa Dentistry & Implant Center, our team can evaluate your symptoms and discuss appropriate options for TMJ treatment in Santa Rosa, CA.

Ready for Relief?

Persistent jaw pain, clicking, limited movement, or other TMJ symptoms can affect your ability to eat, speak, and enjoy everyday activities.

If you are experiencing symptoms that may be related to TMJ dysfunction, contact Santa Rosa Dentistry & Implant Center to schedule an evaluation.

Our team can evaluate your symptoms and help determine the next appropriate step for your care.

Dr. Wayne Sutton

Connect with Dr. Wayne Sutton on Linkedin

Dr. Sutton is one of the premier cosmetic dentists in Sonoma County, and with over 25 years of experience, his implant center maintains a standard of excellence using the strongest dental implant bridge currently available to provide predictable full mouth dental implant reconstructions. 

Dr. Sutton completed his postgraduate studies at The Pacific Aesthetic Continuum in San Francisco and received his doctorate, three years of experience as a clinical instructor, and the coveted “Clinical Excellence Award” from UCSF School of Dentistry in 1997. He also earned his Fellowship in the Academy of Comprehensive Esthetics and studied Advanced Occlusion at the Hornbrook Group.

Dr. Sutton continues to take four times the annual continuing education requirements to maintain his license. As a member of the American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry, the Dental Organization for Conscious Sedation (awarded his Fellowship), the Academy of General Dentistry (Fellowships status), the American Dental Implant Association (Diplomat status), the American Dental Association, the American Academy for Dental Sleep Medicine, Dr. Sutton is also a select cosmetic dentist recognized as an Official Dentist of the Mrs. Globe – Mrs. USA Pageants.