Jaw pain, clicking sounds, and difficulty chewing can all point to problems with the temporomandibular joint, often referred to as TMJ. These issues can interfere with daily comfort and make simple movements feel strained or painful.
Dr. Lance Porter is a Hot Springs dentist who is an active member of several professional organizations, including the American Dental Association and the Arkansas State Dental Association. With strong ties to the community and a focus on patient-centered care, he provides thoughtful evaluation and treatment for jaw-related concerns.
Addressing TMJ symptoms early can help prevent further discomfort and support better long-term function, making it important to explore the causes and available treatment options.
What is TMJ?
When you think about joints wearing down or developing problems, you probably think about your hip, knee or shoulder joints. The joint that controls the movements of your mouth probably doesn’t come to mind.
But the temporomandibular joint (commonly referred to as the TMJ), which connects the jaw to the lower skull in front of each ear, is very important. A healthy TMJ allows you to open and close your jaw and move it side to side so you can chew, speak and yawn comfortably. Problems with the TMJ can cause significant pain and discomfort and interfere with biting and chewing.
What Causes TMJ Disorders?
TMJ disorders can develop from a variety of contributing factors, and in many cases, more than one issue may be involved. Identifying the cause helps guide the most effective dental treatment approach.
Common causes include:
- Teeth grinding or clenching, particularly during sleep
- Bite misalignment that places uneven pressure on the joint
- Arthritis affecting the temporomandibular joint
- Injury or trauma to the jaw, head, or neck
- Muscle tension related to ongoing stress
- Poor posture that strains the jaw and surrounding muscles
Symptoms may appear gradually or begin after a specific incident. A detailed evaluation can help identify underlying factors and inform a more targeted treatment plan.
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What Are Symptoms of TMJ Disorder?
TMJ disease or disorder (called TMD) affects the joint and the muscles that control it. The TMJ consists of a rounded protrusion of the lower jaw that sits against an indentation in the lower jaw. There is a disc-like structure covered in cartilage between the two bones. Ligaments from different parts of the head and neck hold the TMJ together and help guide its movement; also, muscles are connected to the ligaments and help guide the motion of the lower jaw.
Like other joints in the body, the TMJ can suffer an injury or fracture, become displaced or develop arthritis, all of which lead to TMD.
Symptoms of TMD include the following:
- Jaw and facial pain
- Headaches
- Ringing in the ears (tinnitus)
- Difficulty chewing
- Stiffness in the jaw (lockjaw)
- Audible clicking or popping noises when opening or closing the mouth or chewing
- Swelling on the side of the face
- Toothaches
- Dizziness
- Hearing problems
Treatments for TMD (TMJ Disorder)
Porter Dental Health Clinic treats TMD on a case-by-case basis depending on the circumstances of your individual problem. TMJ therapy can involve a number of different techniques and special technologies.
Usually the first line of defense against TMJ problems is over-the-counter medications (e.g., ibuprofen) to alleviate pain. Applying heat or cold compresses to the sides of the face may help soothe discomfort associated with TMD. Following a soft-foods-only diet is also recommended. Managing stress through meditation, breathing exercises or therapy can help alleviate teeth grinding that aggravates the TMJ.
If these remedies don’t work, Porter Dental Health Clinic might recommend an alternative therapy such as wearing a custom-fitted mouthguard. These mouthguards reposition and support your jaw as you sleep. They also prevent you from clenching or grinding your teeth. Your mouthguard is designed specifically for the contours of your mouth.
If you have a bite problem, Porter Dental Health Clinic can recommend repairing misaligned teeth, replacing missing teeth or using other means to balance out your bite. A more balanced bite supports a healthy TMJ.
Physical therapy with guided exercises can help restore normal movement, relax the muscles and alleviate pain.
Rarely, surgery is needed to remedy problems with the TMJ.
Why Choose Porter Dental Health Clinic for TMJ Treatment?
Successful TMJ treatment requires clinical precision and a strong foundation in diagnosing conditions that affect the jaw, bite, and surrounding muscles. At Porter Dental Health Clinic, care is led by Dr. Lance Porter, who earned his Doctor of Dental Surgery degree from the University of Tennessee-Memphis and completed his undergraduate studies at the University of Arkansas in Fayetteville.
His professional involvement includes participation in organizations such as the American Dental Association, the Arkansas State Dental Association, the Central District and Garland County Dental Society, the Pierre Fauchard Academy, and The American Academy of Dental Practice Administration. This level of engagement reflects a commitment to maintaining high standards and staying informed on current treatment methods.
Each TMJ case is evaluated with attention to detail, allowing for treatment plans that focus on improving jaw function, relieving discomfort, and supporting long-term oral health for patients in Hot Springs, Malvern, and surrounding areas.
Learn More about the TMJ
If you think you are experiencing pain and other symptoms related to TMJ problems, we can help. Please request an appointment at Porter Dental Health Clinic to get checked out and discuss your symptoms with Drs. Porter and Purifoy. Call or email us today!