TMJ Disorder: Signs, Symptoms, and Dental Treatment Options in El Paso
Do you wake up with a sore jaw? Does your mouth click or pop when you open wide? Do you grind your teeth at night? These are among the most common — and most commonly overlooked — signs of temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorder. At Marquez Integrative Dental Care in El Paso, TX, Dr. Alfred Marquez evaluates these symptoms through individualized dental assessment and care. Results vary by patient and situation, and our goal is always to give you an honest picture of your options.
What Is TMJ Disorder?
The temporomandibular joints are the two joints on either side of your jaw that connect your lower jaw to your skull. When something disrupts the normal function of these joints or the surrounding muscles, the result is a range of symptoms collectively referred to as temporomandibular disorder (TMD), often called TMJ disorder.
Common Signs and Symptoms
- Jaw pain or tenderness — particularly in the morning or after meals
- Clicking, popping, or grating sounds when opening or closing the mouth
- Headaches — often tension-type headaches that start near the temples
- Difficulty or discomfort chewing
- Teeth grinding (bruxism) — often during sleep, which can accelerate tooth wear
- Facial pain or soreness in the cheeks or jaw muscles
- Neck and shoulder tension
How Dentists Evaluate and Treat TMJ Disorder
There is no single treatment for TMJ disorder, and what works for one patient may not be appropriate for another. Dr. Marquez’s approach is to start with a complete evaluation, then discuss options matched to your specific findings. Common dental approaches may include:
- Custom oral appliances (night guards or splints) — help reduce the effects of nighttime clenching and grinding and protect tooth enamel from further wear
- Bite evaluation and adjustment — Dr. Marquez may evaluate your occlusion as part of a comprehensive assessment
- Patient education and self-care guidance — jaw exercises, dietary modifications during flare-ups, and stress management strategies
We do not promise that any treatment will eliminate symptoms entirely — individual results vary. What we do promise is that Dr. Marquez will take your concerns seriously and give you clear, honest information about your options.
If you are experiencing jaw pain, clicking, or headaches that may be related to your bite or jaw function, learn more about TMJ evaluation at our office, or call us at (915) 779-6403.