Medically reviewed by Dr. Hadi Daia, DDS, MS, FRCD©
Updated July 17, 2026
Orofacial pain encompasses a wide range of conditions that cause discomfort or pain in the face, mouth, jaw, head, and neck regions. Among the most common orofacial pain conditions are temporomandibular disorders (TMD) including temporomandibular joint (TMJ) pain. These complex conditions can significantly impact your quality of life, making it crucial to understand their causes, symptoms, and available treatment options. There are also some common misconceptions about TMD and TMJ pain due to a lack of education around the topic, and today we aim to address that. If you want to dig deeper, you can read about the most common misconceptions on earaches and TMJ here.
What Causes TMD and TMJ Pain?
According to the National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research, the exact causes of TMD and TMJ pain are often unclear, with symptoms seeming to start without an obvious reason. However, recent research suggests that a combination of genetic factors, psychological and life stressors, and how someone perceives pain may play a role in the development and persistence of these conditions.
How Can Malocclusion Lead to TMD or TMJ Pain?
There have been many discussions regarding contributing factors to TMD and TMJ pain. It has been suggested that, in some cases, one such contributing factor could be misalignment of the teeth and jaws, referred to as malocclusion. When the teeth and jaws are not properly aligned, it can create an imbalance in the muscles, tendons, and bones that control the movements of the jaw. This imbalance can lead to strain, inflammation, and pain in the temporomandibular joint (TMJ), the hinge that connects the lower jaw to the skull.
Here are six specific conditions where malocclusion has been associated with these orofacial pain conditions:
- Traumatic Impinging of Deep Bite
- Loss of Posterior Occlusion
- Poor Dental Articulation
- Anterior Open Bite
- Functional Shift Caused by Unilateral Posterior Crossbite
- Anterior Crossbite
If you want to learn more about these conditions, check out our blog on the 6 conditions where malocclusion has been associated with TMJ pain and TMD.
Other Orofacial Pain Conditions
Nerve Pain (Neuropathic Pain)
Conditions like trigeminal neuralgia, glossopharyngeal neuralgia, or post-herpetic neuralgia can result in sharp, shooting pain in the face due to nerve damage or dysfunction. Another potential neuropathic pain condition is Burning Mouth Syndrome, a condition characterized by a recurring burning or tingling sensation in the mouth without clear indicators or causes.
Muscle Pain (Neuromuscular Pain)
Myofascial pain syndrome, muscle spasms, or tension-type headaches can cause muscle pain in the face and jaw, often exacerbated by clenching, grinding teeth, stress, or muscle imbalances. These can potentially be caused by injury, trauma, or a motor vehicle accident.
Headaches & Migraines (Neurovascular Pain)
Severe, recurring headaches are often accompanied by nausea, vomiting, and sensitivity to light and sound, and can be caused or exacerbated by TMD and TMJ. Many migraine sufferers experience symptoms stemming from dysfunction or misalignment due to the tension and strain on the muscles and nerves in the head and neck region. Medication and orthodontic treatment can help correct bite issues and alleviate migraine pain related to TMD.
If you want to learn more about how your headaches and migraines may be linked to your oral health, check out our blog.
Sinus and Dental Causes
Sinus infections, dental infections, or dental procedures can lead to orofacial pain, with pain from sinusitis often felt in the cheeks, forehead, or upper teeth.
Bruxism
Bruxism is a condition characterized by involuntary grinding, clenching, or gnashing of teeth. It can occur while a person is asleep or awake and typically happens during periods of stress or anxiety. This can fatigue the jaw muscles and cause pain, which may be combated by orthodontic appliances, myofunctional exercises, oral appliances, and even medication. Bruxism may contribute to the development or worsening of TMD and other orofacial pain conditions. Managing bruxism through stress reduction techniques, night guards, or other methods may be recommended as part of an overall treatment approach.
Joint Pain
Discomfort or soreness in the jaw joints (temporomandibular joints, or TMJ) due to injury, arthritis, or TMD can radiate to the face, neck, and shoulders.
If you want to learn more about these key aspects, check out our page on TMD, TMJ pain, and orofacial pain.
What Are the Symptoms of TMD and Orofacial Pain?
The symptoms of TMD, TMJ pain, and other orofacial pain conditions can vary widely in severity and presentation. According to the National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research, some of the most common signs and symptoms include:
- Pain or tenderness in the jaw, face, or around the ear, often radiating to the neck and shoulders (the most common symptom).
- Clicking, popping, or grating in the jaw joint when opening or closing the mouth.
- A change in the way the upper and lower teeth fit together.
- Ringing in the ears (tinnitus), hearing loss, or dizziness/vertigo.
- A feeling of jaw stiffness.
- Difficulty or discomfort when chewing, opening the mouth wide, or yawning.
- Headaches, earaches, or toothaches.
- Lockjaw or limited movement of the jaw.
- Tooth sensitivity or loose teeth.
- Numbness or tingling in the face or fingers.
Orofacial pain can be caused by numerous factors and can lead to other physical and even psychological issues. It is important to document all of your symptoms, as many cases are linked to one another. Documenting your symptoms helps your doctor gain a better understanding of the condition you’re dealing with. An ideal method is keeping a digital or physical journal of all changes, habits, and pain symptoms. This may include information such as hormonal cycles, differences in day-to-day function, unique side effects, headaches and migraines, and fluctuations in pain levels.
Treatment Options for TMD, TMJ Pain, and Orofacial Pain
At Daia Orthodontics & TMJ Orthopedics, we understand that each patient’s condition is unique, and we tailor our treatment approach accordingly. Our comprehensive treatment options for TMD, TMJ pain, and other orofacial pain conditions may include:
Behavioral Modifications
Correcting parafunctional habits, such as nail biting or chewing on hard objects, can reduce the repetitive strain they place on the jaw, teeth, and surrounding muscles. Patient education is very important to this approach, since understanding what drives the condition makes these habits easier to recognize and break.
Occlusal Splints or Night Guards
These custom-made appliances fit over the teeth and help reposition the jaw, reducing strain and protecting the teeth from grinding or clenching. Dr. Daia has several appliance designs that are implemented on a case-by-case basis and will select the most appropriate one for each patient. Other TMJ orthodontic methods may also be used to reduce negative symptoms.
Physical Therapy
Specific exercises and techniques can help strengthen and relax the muscles surrounding the TMJ, improving mobility and reducing pain. This may involve stretching, massage, low-level laser therapy, and proper jaw and head posture training.
Airway & Sleep-Related Treatment
Airway constriction and sleep-disordered breathing, such as sleep apnea, are associated with bruxism and can contribute to or worsen TMJ pain over time. Depending on the cause, treatment may include maxillary expanders, sleep oral appliances, sleep apnea treatment, a CPAP machine, or surgery. You can learn more in our blog about the connection between sleep apnea, orthognathics, and orthodontics.
Medication
Over-the-counter or prescription medications, such as anti-inflammatory drugs, muscle relaxants, or pain relievers, may be recommended to manage pain and inflammation.
Injections
In some cases, injections of corticosteroids, local anesthetics, botulinum toxin (Botox), and other medications, or procedures like acupuncture or dry needling, may be used to reduce inflammation or relax the muscles in the affected area.
Surgical Intervention
In cases where conservative treatment options have been exhausted, surgery may be considered to correct structural issues or repair damaged areas of the TMJ.
Orthodontic Treatment
Where malocclusion is suspected as a contributing factor, orthodontic treatment can help realign the teeth and jaws, reducing strain on the TMJ and associated muscles.
Post-Injury and Post-Traumatic Care
Injuries from accidents, falls, or sports can damage the TMJ and sometimes mimic other TMD diagnoses. Our post-traumatic evaluation assesses TMJ trauma and resulting dysfunction, with options ranging from TMJ orthotics and physical therapy to referrals for oral and maxillofacial specialists. Learn more on our trauma page.
Managing TMD, TMJ Pain, and Orofacial Pain at Home
While professional treatment is essential for addressing the underlying causes of TMD, TMJ pain, and other orofacial pain conditions, there are also self-care strategies that can help manage symptoms and promote overall well-being.
As noted in the TMDs and the orthodontic patient advice sheet from the British Orthodontic Society, practical measures that can help include:
- Apply Moist Heat or Cold: Applying a warm compress or an ice pack wrapped in a damp towel to the affected area can help reduce inflammation, relax the muscles, alleviate pain, and increase blood flow.
- Eat Soft Foods: Avoiding hard, crunchy, or chewy foods can reduce strain on the jaw and prevent further irritation. Some patients find that certain foods trigger their symptoms.
- Practice Stress Relief: Engaging in stress-reducing activities like exercise, meditation, or deep breathing can help relax the muscles and minimize teeth clenching or grinding.
- Maintain Good Posture: Proper posture of the jaw, head, and neck can help align the spine and reduce strain on the surrounding muscles.
- Avoid Overuse: Rest the joint by avoiding excessive opening of the mouth, and limit activities that require prolonged or wide opening, such as yawning, singing, or chewing gum.
- Use Over-the-Counter Pain Relievers: Medications like acetaminophen or non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) can help relieve pain and inflammation when used as directed.
Learn more on our blog about lifestyle changes that support the treatment of TMJ disorders.
When To See a Specialist for TMD or TMJ Pain
Temporomandibular disorder is the second most common chronic musculoskeletal condition after chronic low back pain, according to a medical journal review on TMDs and orofacial pain from the University of Minnesota School of Dentistry. So, if you’re experiencing symptoms of TMD, TMJ pain, or orofacial pain, it’s important to seek professional help.
At Daia Orthodontics & TMJ Orthopedics, our experienced team provides comprehensive care to help you find relief. Our detailed evaluations include medical history reviews, clinical exams, and advanced imaging when needed to identify the root causes and develop personalized, effective treatment plans. Our compassionate staff guides you every step of the way, ensuring you receive high-quality care tailored to your needs.
Don’t let TMD, TMJ pain, or orofacial pain continue to impact your quality of life. Schedule a consultation with Daia Orthodontics & TMJ Orthopedics today and take the first step toward a pain-free future.
