Painful temporo-mandibular joint (jaw joint)

Causes

The human masticatory (chewing) system consists of teeth, masticatory muscles and temporomandibular joint (jaw joint). If problems occur in the system like cramps in the masticatory muscles, or stress and damages to the jaw joints, pain will be felt. Besides, if the position of the disc inside the joint is shifted, there will be clicking sounds from the jaw joint during opening or closing of mouth.

Animation showing up and down movement of jaws.

Factors causing painful jaws

  • Malocclusion.

  • An over-filled tooth.

    Animation showing a lower second molar that is overfilled and results in abnormal biting position of upper and lower teeth.

  • An unfit denture.

    Animation showing an unfit denture affecting the normal movement of upper and lower jaws.
  • Habitual grinding of teeth.
  • Chewing on only one side of the mouth.
  • Jaw joints being traumatized by external force.

Management

If you have painful jaw joints, consult a dentist for advice and management.