Chronic Jaw Pain? What Your Dentist and Physical Therapist Can Do Together

If you’ve been living with chronic jaw pain, frequent headaches, or difficulty chewing, you’re not alone. These symptoms often point to temporomandibular joint disorder (TMD)—a condition affecting the jaw joint and surrounding muscles. While many people turn to their dentist for help, the most effective approach often involves a team effort between your dentist and a physical therapist.

By addressing the underlying causes of TMD, this collaboration can provide long-lasting relief and improved function. Here’s how working with both professionals can benefit you.

What Causes TMD?

TMD can result from a variety of factors, including:

• Jaw misalignment.

• Teeth grinding or clenching (bruxism).

• Poor posture, especially forward head posture.

• Stress, leading to muscle tension.

• Trauma to the jaw or face.

These issues can lead to pain, clicking or popping sounds in the jaw, limited movement, and even referred pain in the head, neck, or shoulders.

How Dentists Address TMD

Dentists often play a critical role in diagnosing and managing TMD. Common treatments include:

• Mouthguards or Splints: To reduce teeth grinding and protect the jaw joint.

• Bite Adjustments: To correct misalignments and relieve pressure on the TMJ.

• Stress Management Recommendations: To reduce tension-related clenching or grinding.

While these treatments can help alleviate symptoms, they don’t always address the underlying muscle and joint dysfunction contributing to TMD. That’s where physical therapy comes in.

How Physical Therapy Treats TMD

Physical therapists focus on relieving pain, improving joint function, and restoring proper movement in the jaw and surrounding areas. Treatments may include:

1. Manual Therapy

• Hands-on techniques to release tension in the jaw, neck, and upper back muscles.

• Gentle joint mobilizations to improve TMJ alignment and mobility.

2. Posture Correction

• Poor posture, especially forward head posture, can strain the jaw muscles and worsen TMD symptoms. PTs teach exercises to improve alignment and reduce stress on the TMJ.

3. Targeted Exercises

• Strengthening weak muscles and stretching tight ones around the jaw, neck, and shoulders to improve function and stability.

4. Education on Habits

• Guidance on avoiding habits like teeth clenching, nail-biting, or chewing gum that can exacerbate TMD.

The Power of Collaboration: Why Dentists and PTs Work Better Together

When your dentist and physical therapist collaborate, they can create a comprehensive treatment plan that addresses every aspect of TMD:

• Dentists provide structural solutions, like splints or bite adjustments, to correct alignment and protect the jaw.

• Physical therapists address the muscular and joint dysfunction that contributes to pain and limited movement.

Together, they ensure your treatment is holistic and tailored to your unique needs, increasing the likelihood of lasting relief.

When to Seek Help for TMD

If you’re experiencing any of the following symptoms, it’s time to consult a dentist or physical therapist:

• Chronic jaw pain or tenderness.

• Difficulty chewing or opening your mouth fully.

• Clicking, popping, or locking in the jaw joint.

• Frequent headaches, earaches, or facial pain.

Get Relief from Jaw Pain at Victory Physical Therapy

At Victory Physical Therapy in Helena, MT, we work closely with local dentists to provide comprehensive care for TMD. Our expertise in manual therapy, posture correction, and jaw rehabilitation can help you find relief and restore your quality of life.

Contact us today to schedule an evaluation and start your journey toward pain-free living.