I have a recurring pain where my jaw meets my temple, and sometimes my jaw clicks when I chew. What’s the problem?

If you have pain where your jaw meets your temple, or notice clicking when you chew, you could be experiencing temporomandibular disorder (TMJ/TMD). This condition affects the flexibility and function of the temporomandibular joint (TMJ) and the surrounding muscles. Because this joint controls bite, speech, chewing, and nearly all jaw movements, the discomfort can be significant.

What Causes TMJ Disorders?

TMJ issues have several possible causes, but one of the most common is bite misalignment.

• When the bite is uneven, it puts extra pressure on the jaw joint.
• The muscles then work overtime to keep the jaws aligned, which can lead to fatigue and pain.
• TMJ may also result from injuries to the face or jaw that disrupt the joint’s normal positioning.

Other contributing factors may include:

• Jaw clenching or teeth grinding (bruxism)
• Stress-related tension in facial muscles
• Arthritis in the jaw joint

👉 Learn more from the American Dental Association on TMJ.

Common Symptoms of TMJ

People with TMJ disorders may experience:

• Headaches or toothaches
• Jaw pain or tenderness
• Clicking, popping, or grinding sounds when opening or closing the mouth
• Jaw that locks or feels stuck
• Pain while chewing or talking

If left untreated, TMJ symptoms can worsen and significantly affect quality of life.

Treatment Options for TMJ

Treatment can range from conservative approaches to more advanced procedures, depending on the cause.

Professional Treatment

• Mouthguards or retainers: Custom appliances can help reposition the bite and relieve stress on the joint.
• Reshaping bite surfaces: Adjusting how upper and lower teeth meet may reduce strain.
• Surgery: Recommended only in severe cases, often following trauma or significant joint damage.

At-Home Relief

While awaiting professional treatment, these strategies may help reduce pain and inflammation:

• Apply heating pads or cold compresses to reduce swelling.
• Limit jaw movement by avoiding chewy or hard foods.
• Gentle jaw massage to relieve muscle tension.
• Use over-the-counter pain relievers (ibuprofen or acetaminophen) to manage inflammation.

👉 Mayo Clinic also provides resources on self-care and TMJ treatments.

Choosing the Right Approach

When it comes to TMJ treatment, it’s best to start with the most conservative options and escalate only if symptoms persist. A dental professional can evaluate your bite, your joint health, and your overall oral condition to recommend the right path forward.

Final Thoughts

TMJ disorders can be painful and disruptive, but they are also highly treatable. If you’re experiencing jaw pain, clicking, or locking, don’t ignore it—schedule an appointment with your dentist. Early treatment not only provides relief but also helps prevent long-term joint damage.

👉 For more information, see the National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research on TMJ Disorders.

Dr. Deborah Fung

Dr. Deborah Fung earned her dental degree with honors in 1992 from the University of Minnesota School of Dentistry. In addition to serving as a dental officer in the Minnesota Army National Guard for 12 years, she has also continued her education in many areas of dentistry, including orthodontics, endodontics (root canal therapy), implants, cosmetic dentistry, and oral surgery.