TMJ Disorder in San Francisco
Jaw pain, clicking, or difficulty opening your mouth fully can be signs of a TMJ disorder. At Financial District Dentistry, we help patients throughout San Francisco, CA find relief from TMJ-related symptoms.
What Is TMJ Disorder?
TMJ disorder, or TMD, refers to a group of conditions affecting the temporomandibular joint — the joint that connects your jaw to your skull. It can cause pain, clicking, popping, or difficulty moving your jaw comfortably.
Common Symptoms
Signs of TMJ disorder include jaw pain or tenderness, clicking or popping when you open or close your mouth, headaches, earaches, and difficulty chewing or fully opening your mouth. Symptoms can range from mild and occasional to more persistent and disruptive.
What Causes TMJ Disorder?
TMJ disorder can be caused by teeth grinding or clenching, jaw injury, arthritis in the joint, or an uneven bite. In many cases, the exact cause isn’t fully clear, and several factors may contribute together.
TMJ Disorder and Teeth Grinding
Bruxism, or teeth grinding, is a common contributor to TMJ symptoms. A custom night guard can help reduce strain on the jaw joint by cushioning the impact of clenching and grinding during sleep.
Treatment Options
Treatment depends on the severity and cause of your symptoms. Options may include a custom night guard, bite adjustment, stress management techniques, or referral to a specialist for more complex cases. Our team will evaluate your symptoms and bite to recommend the right approach.
When to See a Dentist
If you’re experiencing ongoing jaw pain, clicking, or difficulty opening your mouth, a dental evaluation can help identify the cause and appropriate treatment.
Schedule Your TMJ Evaluation
Dealing with jaw pain or discomfort? Our team at Financial District Dentistry is here to help. Contact us or request an appointment today.
TMJ Disorder FAQs
What are the symptoms of TMJ disorder?
Common symptoms include jaw pain, clicking or popping, headaches, earaches, and difficulty opening the mouth fully.
What causes TMJ disorder?
Causes can include teeth grinding, jaw injury, arthritis, or an uneven bite, often with multiple contributing factors.
Can a night guard help with TMJ symptoms?
Yes, a custom night guard can help reduce jaw strain related to clenching and grinding, which is a common TMJ contributor.
Is TMJ disorder permanent?
Not necessarily — many patients find relief with conservative treatment like a night guard or bite adjustment, though more complex cases may need specialist care.
When should I see a dentist about jaw pain?
If jaw pain, clicking, or limited movement persists or affects your daily life, a dental evaluation can help identify the cause.
Can stress contribute to TMJ symptoms?
Yes, stress can contribute to clenching and grinding, which can worsen TMJ symptoms.
Find Relief From Jaw Pain
Contact us at (415) 399-9999 to schedule your TMJ evaluation.