“My Jaw Hurts Constantly… How Do I Get Relief?”
What is TMJ Disorder and How Does It Affect Oral Health?
The TMJ, or temporomandibular joint, is what allows your mouth to open and close, as well as speak and chew normally. It’s an intricate, complex network of muscles and joints which contributes to the movement of both your jaw and mouth. The temporomandibular joint is located on each side of the head and connects the rest of the skull to the mobile jawbone (mandible). Each temporomandibular joint has a delicate disc separating a ball and socket mechanism, similar to the knee or shoulder joint. The disc cushions the pressure while the jaw opens and rotates. If a problem occurs in this complex musculoskeletal system, it can feel extremely painful and tense. This is referred to as temporomandibular disorder, TMJ disorder, or simply “TMJ.”
TMJ can be a serious concern when it comes to your oral health because it often is accompanied by problems with grinding or clenching your teeth and jaw misalignment. For this reason, it’s important to have it treated promptly before the problems become long-term and irreversible.
Being able to move your jaw without pain can seem like a dream come true when you’ve been struggling with TMJ disorder (sometimes just called TMJ). When you start to feel pain in your jaw from chewing, yawning, or talking, you’ll likely notice it constantly. This pain can usually mean something is affecting your TMJ. TMJ disorder is a common condition that affects millions of Americans, but thankfully, this condition can be treated easily with the help of your dentist. In Midtown Manhattan, Dr. Inna Chern and her team offer solutions for TMJ disorders to New York, NY patients looking for relief.
Symptoms of TMJ Disorder
Jaw Pain and Clicking
One of the most reported symptoms of TMJ disorder is discomfort, especially when chewing. This pain is usually located in the jaw joint on one or both sides of the head and is usually the result of inflammation. Another common symptom that TMJ patients experience is jaw clicking accompanying the pain and a “tired” feeling in the face, neck, shoulder, and upper back region.
Chronic Headaches and Migraines
Some TMJ sufferers experience headaches and migraines as a result of chronic TMJ issues. These are usually caused by tension and inflammation of the delicate muscles that make up the TMJ which include the elevator muscles (responsible for closing the jaw) and the lateral pterygoid (hold the jaw in position so that the teeth can meet).
Jaw Locking
In some severe cases, the jaw can become locked in place because of inflammation of the disc, making it difficult to open or shut your mouth all the way. It can also get “stuck” in place when trying to open your mouth too wide. The locking occurs when the disc separating the upper and lower bones of the TMJ gets caught in a position that does not allow the joint to move. Often, the dislocation of the disc needs to be adjusted by your dentist and can be very painful.
Ear, Sinus, and Neck Pain
It’s common for TMJ pain to radiate to other areas of the body including the ears, sinuses, neck, and shoulders. If you experience tension or achiness in these areas, it can be the result of a TMJ disorder. TMJ disorder can also cause symptoms like tinnitus, or ear ringing.
Did You Know:
Nearly 60% of patients report some form of TMJ pain starting as young as 7 years old!
TMJ Disorder Treatments and What to Expect
There are several TMJ treatment options available to relieve pain. If you are seeking TMJ treatment in New York City, you may benefit from one or more of the following.
Oral Devices
Using devices such as mouthguards, oral splints, and oral deprogrammers can help prevent damage to your teeth and joints associated with TMJ disorders as well as bruxism. Additionally, they can support and stabilize your muscles and joints to keep your teeth in the correct place when you close your mouth, as well as “guide” your jaw into a more natural position when closing your mouth.
Medications and Botox Treatment
There are a number of medications that can be helpful in treating TMJ disorders and relieving symptoms such as muscle relaxers, anti-inflammatory drugs, and even Botox. Botox can prevent muscle movements through neuromodulation, meaning the TMJ can effectively recover from inflammation and discomfort in the meantime. Botox therapy is excellent for acute pain and lasts 3-5 months.
Relaxation Techniques, Strengthening Exercises, and Massage
Special exercises can help you get relief at home by relaxing the joints and muscles and reducing inflammation. With regular use, these exercises can train the jaw muscles to move without discomfort and relieve tension. Performing a series of exercises for approximately 5-10 minutes each day can stretch the muscles and relax the surrounding areas.
Lifestyle Changes
Lifestyle changes can help manage TMJ disorders and relieve symptoms. In most cases, TMJ disorders go hand-in-hand with stress, so managing stress in your lifestyle can be a great way to start. These changes can also include managing discomfort (and reducing inflammation) with hot or cold packs, avoiding gum or chewy candy, and eating softer foods regularly.
TMJ Disorder Outcomes
In many cases, TMJ disorder is a short-term problem that can be managed with the right steps. That means it will subside over time and you’ll get relief from symptoms with a customized care plan. You may need to take some steps to ensure it doesn’t come back by managing stress and preventing bruxism in the meantime. Dr. Chern will discuss all your options and formulate a treatment plan that suits your needs.
TMJ Treatment FAQ’s
Can a bad bite cause TMJ?
Can a dentist tell if you have TMJ?
Can a night guard make TMJ worse?
Can TMJ affect balance?
Can TMJ affect eustachian tube?
Can massage therapy help with TMJ?
Can TMJ make your ears feel clogged?
Do mouthguards help with TMJ?
Does drinking water help TMJ?
Does TMJ get worse with age?
How do you stop a TMJ flare up?
How long does it take for TMJ to go away?
Is heat or ice better for TMJ?
Is it TMJ or tooth infection?
What is a good muscle relaxer for TMJ?
What is the best treatment for TMJ?
What kind of doctor do I see for TMJ pain?
What muscle relaxer is best for TMJ?
Why does TMJ cause ear pain?
What will happen if TMJ is not treated?
What will a dentist do for TMJ?
How can I prevent TMJ at night?
Is TMJ a form of arthritis?
What causes TMJ flare ups?
Is TMJ a disability?
Is there a surgery for TMJ?
How do doctors fix TMJ?
How do you get rid of TMJ headaches?
Can TMJ cause nerve pain?
Can TMJ feel like a sinus infection?
Does TMJ go away?
What Makes Our Office the Right Fit for Your Dental Needs?

Personalized Care
There are many different factors that can contribute to TMJ disorders, so we can create a comprehensive treatment approach so you get long-term relief.

Comfortable Office
Our goal is to make you feel comfortable and relaxed while we provide exceptional care. That’s why we provide a modern and bright atmosphere with amenities to help you feel at ease.

Health-First Approach
Your health is our top priority, so we use only the best and latest techniques and therapies to get you effective treatment.

Meet With Dr. Chern &
Her Manhattan Team
TMJ disorder can make it hard to enjoy the things you love most. If you’re looking for the best in treatments and ways to get relief, our team can help. We invite you to schedule an appointment with Dr. Chern and our team by calling 212-838-0842 or filling out our online form.
“I have been Dr. Chern’s patient for several years now and I have no intention of ever finding another dentist. When you find an amazing dentist, you stick with them. She’s honest, professional, and knows what she’s doing. Her staff is just as amazing.”
– David K.
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New York, NY 10155
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“One of the most wonderful dentists I have ever been to. Inna is kind, compassionate, and truly cares about her patients. I was always afraid of dentists until I met Inna. Highly recommend her for any dentistry needs – and if you would like your dentist to be your new best friend!”
– Abhi G.