TMJ Dysfunction

The TMJ or temporomandibular joint is an incredibly hard working and complex joint, that allows you to talk, eat, yawn, form facial expressions and also supports breathing. It is the only joint in the body that works bilaterally, which means that both sides of the joint work together to create movement. The teeth limit the range of movement of the joint, but the actual resting position of the TMJ is with a small gap of a few mm between the teeth.

The normal opening movement of the TMJ is 3 fingers, which means you should be able to fit 3 fingers vertically between your top and bottom front teeth.

A number of symptoms can occur when there is dysfunction in the TMJ or surrounding muscles/fascia. These include:

Jaw pain
Neck or shoulder pain
Headaches or sinus pain
Ringing in the ears (tinnitus)
Problems when swallowing
Teeth grinding (bruxism)
Clicking or popping in the joint
Toothache
Limited range of motion

Treatment

TMJ dysfunction treatment is for tight muscles and fascia surrounding the TMJ, and involves a number of techniques including soft tissue release, myofascial release and instrument assisted mobilisation of the head, face, neck and shoulders. I will also use intra-oral techniques (treatment inside the mouth) to get to the muscles that cannot be easily accessed externally.

For hygiene reasons I will wear a face mask while working close to your face and mouth (due to covid I wear face masks for all treatments now) as well as vinyl disposable gloves for intra-oral techniques.

Prior to treatment I will complete a full assessment, noting the symptoms you experience and the duration of these symptoms, as well as a visual and physical assessment of your jaw, face, neck and shoulders. This is essential for me to determine possible causes for the dysfunction.

To book your TMJ treatment, please visit the contact page or click book online in the menu.