Temporomandibular Joint (TMJ) Pain

Maxillofacial surgery, Useful Instructions

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Symptoms of Temporomandibular Joint (TMJ) Dysfunction

The symptoms of TMJ dysfunction may include one or more of the following:

  • Pain or ringing in the ear
  • Difficulty chewing, biting, opening, or closing the mouth
  • Clicking or grinding sounds (“clicking”) when opening and closing the mouth
  • Muscle tenderness with a pulsating sensation, on one or both sides
  • Pain in the joint area, on one or both sides
  • Migraines or headaches
  • Deviation of the lower jaw from its normal path (instability)
  • Jaw locking when opening widely
  • Pain in the neck area

Several muscles and nerves must work together to enable the opening and closing of the mouth. The range of mouth opening varies between individuals, with an average of 35-55 millimeters, roughly equivalent to the width of three fingers.

Methods for Prevention

Relaxation of Jaw Muscles

Relaxation techniques, such as massage, can significantly help prevent and manage TMJ dysfunction.

  • Place your index and middle fingers on your cheek and slide them downward in front of your ear.
  • Move your fingers to locate tight or tense areas.
  • Massage each tight spot using circular motions for 30 seconds.

Strengthening the Jaw Muscles

TMJ dysfunction may result from or cause poor coordination of the chewing muscles.

The following exercises are recommended to retrain the muscles, restoring their natural function to coordinate and stabilize the lower jaw joints on both sides.

Exercise Guidelines

  • Breathe normally during the exercises—do not hold your breath.
  • Perform these exercises while sitting or standing, keeping your head still throughout.

Exercises for TMJ Relief

Opening and Closing the Mouth

  1. Open your mouth as wide as possible.
  2. Hold the position for 3 seconds.
  3. Slowly and controlledly close your mouth.
  4. Repeat 5 times.

Lateral Jaw Movements

  1. Open your mouth.
  2. Move your jaw to the left.
  3. Hold the position for 3 seconds.
  4. Return to the starting position.
  5. Repeat 5 times.
  6. Complete the same set of repetitions moving to the right.

Opening and Closing with the Tongue on the Roof of the Mouth

  1. Press your tongue against the roof of your mouth.
  2. Open your mouth as wide as possible while keeping the tongue in place.
  3. Slowly close your mouth in a controlled manner.
  4. Repeat 5 times.

Caution

  • Stop immediately and consult a specialist if any of these exercises cause pain, numbness, or tingling.
  • If you have undergone surgery, consult your doctor before starting these exercises.

Helpful Tips for TMJ Health

  • Keep your mouth closed without clenching your teeth together.
  • Avoid excessive mouth opening when biting into hard foods (e.g., apples).
  • Do not chew exclusively on one side of the mouth.
  • Avoid excessive chewing, such as frequent gum chewing.