Disorders of the Jaw (“TMJ”)

Disorders of the Jaw Temporomandibular Joint (TMJ) Disorder

What is it:

The jaw joint and the muscles that regulate jaw movement become painful and dysfunctional when someone has Temporomandibular Joint (TMJ) Disorder. The chronic pain and restricted muscle action associated with TMJ can have a detrimental impact on one’s quality of life (also known as symptomatic dysfunction). In order to help our patients return to a normal life, Orange Coast ENT specializes in the diagnosis and treatment of Temporomandibular Joint Disorder.

Signs and Symptoms:

The symptoms of TMJ issues can range widely. The most prevalent symptom is pain, which can range in intensity and is most frequently felt in the chewing muscles and/or jaw joint. Other likely symptoms include:

  • Radiating pain in the face, jaw, or neck,
  • Jaw muscle stiffness,
  • Limited movement or locking of the jaw,
  • Painful clicking, popping or grating in the jaw joint when opening or closing the mouth,
  • A change in the way the upper and lower teeth fit together.

For more information on TMJ, please call our office at (949) 715-0500 for a consultation.