Temporomandibular Joint Disorder
Are you experiencing jaw pain, clicking sounds, or headaches?
If you hear clicking when you chew, wake up with headaches, or struggle to fully open your mouth, you may be experiencing TMJ disorder—also known as TMD.
The temporomandibular joints connect your lower jaw to your skull and help you speak, chew, yawn, and smile. When these joints become inflamed or misaligned, everyday movements can become painful.
According to Mayo Clinic and Cleveland Clinic, common TMJ symptoms include:
- Jaw pain or tenderness
- Clicking, popping, or grinding sounds
- Headaches or facial pain
- Ear discomfort or ringing
- Difficulty opening or closing the mouth
- Jaw locking or stiffness
What causes TMJ disorders?
TMJ problems may develop from:
- Teeth grinding or clenching
- Arthritis
- Jaw injury
- Stress-related muscle tension
- Bite misalignment
Because TMJ disorders can have multiple causes, an accurate diagnosis is essential.
Source: Pexels
What happens during your consultation?
Initial Consultation & Assessment
Your treatment journey begins with:
Discussion of symptoms, concerns, and medical history
We evaluate:
- When the pain began
- Whether symptoms worsen during chewing or waking
- Previous dental or orthodontic treatment
- History of jaw trauma or teeth grinding
Diagnostic imaging (X-rays, CT scans)
Advanced imaging helps us evaluate:
- Joint positioning
- Bone health
- Disc displacement
- Signs of degeneration
CT scans and MRI imaging are often recommended for complex TMJ cases.
Personalised treatment planning
Every TMJ condition is unique. Your treatment may include:
- Bite splints
- Physiotherapy
- Jaw exercises
- Anti-inflammatory therapy
- Stress management strategies
When is surgery needed for TMJ disorders?
Most TMJ conditions improve with conservative care. However, severe structural problems may require surgical correction.
Surgical Procedure (If needed)
Local anaesthesia, sedation, or general anaesthesia
For advanced TMJ cases, minimally invasive arthroscopic treatment may be recommended.
Unlike traditional open-joint surgery that requires larger facial incisions, TMJ arthroscopy uses tiny entry points and a miniature camera to access the joint.
This laparoscopic-style approach allows the surgeon to:
- Remove inflamed tissue
- Release scar tissue
- Improve joint movement
- Reduce pain and locking
TMJ arthroscopy often carries fewer risks and complications compared with open-joint surgery.
Advanced techniques for minimal pain, swelling, and quick recovery
Our goal is precision treatment with:
- Smaller access points
- Less tissue disruption
- Faster healing
- Reduced swelling
What happens after TMJ treatment?
Recovery & Follow-Up Care
Pain management, diet modifications, activity restrictions
Patients may be advised to:
- Follow a soft-food diet
- Avoid excessive jaw movement
- Use prescribed pain medication
- Perform guided jaw exercises
Scheduled follow-ups to monitor healing
Regular reviews help us monitor:
- Jaw movement
- Bite stability
- Pain improvement
Ongoing support for the best outcome
Long-term success may include splint adjustments, physiotherapy, or lifestyle modifications.
If you are having pain or issues with your jaw, book a consultation with our Consultant Oral & Maxillofacial Surgeon at Thomson Hospital Kota Damansara.
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