Temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders can quietly disrupt your life—affecting how you speak, chew, sleep, and even how you feel throughout the day. Jaw stiffness, clicking sounds, or facial pain might seem minor at first, but they may signal a deeper issue that deserves attention. At Community Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, we understand how frustrating and painful TMJ disorders can be. Led by board-certified oral and maxillofacial surgeon Dr. Ruba Khader, our Milwaukee-based team provides compassionate, evidence-based care with advanced technology to help you find relief and restore your quality of life.
Here is what we will cover in this article:
- What are TMJ disorders and how do they develop
- Common symptoms of TMJ disorders
- Possible causes behind TMJ-related pain
- Treatment options, from conservative to surgical
- When to see an oral and maxillofacial surgeon for TMJ disorders
- How TMJ disorders are diagnosed at our Milwaukee office
- Why Community Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery is trusted for TMJ disorder care
- Frequently asked questions about TMJ disorders
What Are TMJ Disorders?
TMJ disorders (or TMD) refer to problems affecting the temporomandibular joints and surrounding/supportive structures. The temporomandibular joints are small but powerful hinges that connect your jawbone to your skull on each side of your face. These joints, along with the muscles, ligaments, and discs that support them, are responsible for helping you talk, chew, and yawn. When the system isn’t functioning correctly due to injury, misalignment, or wear and tear, the result is often pain, stiffness, or limited jaw movement.
TMJ disorders can be temporary or long-term and vary in severity. They may involve just one side of the jaw or both. Diagnosis of TMJ disorders can be challenging because of the variety of other disorders/conditions that it can mimic (from dental pain, to ear pain).
What Are Common Symptoms of TMJ Disorders?
Many people experience TMJ symptoms without realizing the source. You might notice:
- Jaw pain or tenderness
- Clicking, popping, or grinding sounds during movement
- Headaches or earaches
- Difficulty or pain while chewing
- Locked jaw or restricted movement
- Facial pain or pressure
- Pain around the ear or along the side of the neck
What Causes TMJ Disorders?
Several different conditions or habits can lead to TMJ dysfunction, including:
- Chronic teeth grinding or clenching
- Arthritis, which can affect joint structure
- Trauma or injury to the jaw
- Misalignment of the jaw or bite
- Muscle tension linked to stress
- Poor posture that affects jaw and neck alignment
- Generalized connective tissue conditions (such as hypermobility)
Identifying the root cause of your TMJ disorder is essential in determining the most effective treatment.
What Treatment Options Are Available for TMJ Disorders?
TMJ Treatment isn’t one-size-fits-all. At Community Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, we tailor treatment based on the severity of your symptoms, your diagnosis, and your overall health goals
Conservative Approaches First
We begin with non-invasive therapies whenever possible, including:
- Resting the jaw and switching to a soft food diet
- Applying moist heat or ice packs to reduce inflammation
- Taking over-the-counter anti-inflammatory medications
- Performing gentle jaw exercises or physical therapy
- Incorporating stress management techniques like mindfulness or breathing exercises
- Physical therapy in collaboration with reputable and trusted community partners
Oral Appliances and Nightguards
Custom-fitted appliances can ease muscle tension, correct bite issues, and reduce grinding. These are often recommended for nighttime wear and can provide significant relief (if the symptoms that you are experiencing are in fact related to increased stress due to grinding or clenching teeth).
Surgical or Advanced Treatments
If symptoms persist or worsen, surgical intervention may be appropriate. Dr. Khader brings a thoughtful, evidence-based approach to these more complex cases.
Advanced surgical options may include:
- Arthrocentesis or arthroscopy
- Open-joint surgery
- Total joint replacement in rare cases
We use 3D CBCT imaging for precise diagnosis and offer Platelet-Rich Fibrin (PRF) to support healing and tissue regeneration after surgical procedures.
When Should I Consult an Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeon for TMJ Issues?
Many patients try to live with TMJ discomfort for far too long. If any of the following apply, it may be time to consult a specialist:
- Symptoms have not improved with home remedies
- Your jaw gets stuck or won’t open fully
- Headaches, earaches, or facial pain are becoming chronic
- Jaw clicking or locking affects your ability to eat or speak
- Pain is interfering with your sleep or daily activities
Dr. Khader offers a comprehensive, holistic evaluation to help determine whether conservative treatment will be sufficient or if advanced intervention is needed.
How TMJ Disorders Are Diagnosed at Our Milwaukee Office
An accurate diagnosis is the first step to relief. At our Milwaukee office, we take time to understand your symptoms and examine the function of your jaw.
Our diagnosis process includes:
- A detailed clinical evaluation
- Radiographic imaging that may include 3D CBCT imaging to assess joint structure and surrounding tissues
- MRI evaluation may be required and facilitated to better evaluate the jaw joint anatomy
- A collaborative treatment plan, often in coordination with your referring dentist or healthcare provider
Why Choose Community Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery for TMJ Care?
At Community Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, we combine clinical expertise with a compassionate approach that centers on your comfort and long-term wellness.
Frequently Asked Questions About TMJ Disorders
- Is TMJ permanent?
Not always. Many patients experience temporary symptoms that improve with lifestyle changes or conservative treatment. - Can TMJ go away on its own?
Mild TMJ issues may resolve without treatment, but persistent symptoms should be evaluated by a specialist. - Is surgery always necessary?
No. Most TMJ disorders respond well to non-surgical options. Surgery is considered only when other treatments fail. - Can TMJ affect hearing or cause dizziness?
Yes. Because of the joint’s proximity to the ear, TMJ disorders can lead to ear pain, ringing, or even dizziness in some cases.
Take the First Step Toward TMJ Relief Today!
If jaw pain, clicking, or limited movement is interfering with your life, expert care is closer than you think. Community Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery in Milwaukee, WI, offers trusted diagnosis and treatment for TMJ disorders. Whether you’re just beginning to explore treatment options or have tried everything else, Dr. Ruba Khader and our team are here to help.
Call our office or request an appointment online today./a>
Sources:
Dr. Ruba Khader
Dr. Ruba Khader is a board-certified oral and maxillofacial surgeon and the founder of Community Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery in Milwaukee, WI. With advanced training from Tufts University and over a decade of experience in both academic and clinical settings, Dr. Khader is known for her compassionate approach and commitment to excellence in surgical care. She combines state-of-the-art technology with evidence-based practices to deliver personalized treatment for each patient. A former president of the Wisconsin Society of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons, Dr. Khader takes great pride in serving her community with integrity, skill, and heart.