For Patients
If you’re living with TMJ disorder, you’re probably becoming all-too familiar with ongoing pain, unpredictable symptoms and difficulties finding professionals who can actually help you.
TMJ is a complex disorder. That’s why TMJ Clinics focuses exclusively on this condition. Our multi-disciplinary approach offers a multitude of benefits, with evidence-based treatments to help reduce your jaw pain.
What is TMJ disorder?
The temporomandibular joint (TMJ) connects your jaw to your skull, allowing movement for talking, chewing and yawning. When this joint is misaligned or inflamed, it can lead to temporomandibular joint disorder (TMD).
A jaw-dropping list of symptoms
TMJ disorder can trigger a number of symptoms, including:
- Jaw pain or tenderness
- Clicking, popping or grinding noises when opening your mouth
- Limited jaw movement or locking
- Headaches, ear pain, or ringing in the ears (tinnitus)
- Teeth grinding (bruxism) and clenching
- Neck and shoulder pain.
There is a disc within this joint made of cartilage which enables the jaw to move comfortably and smoothly, as it cushions the impact of the jaw. The TMJ allows movement up and down, as well as side to side for actions such as chewing, talking and yawning.
What’s it like to live with TMJ disorder?
The experience of TMJ disorder varies from one person to another. For many people, simple tasks—like eating, yawning, or even talking—can become painful. Persistent jaw tightness, headaches and ear pain can make it hard to focus, sleep or enjoy social interactions.
Unfortunately, many patients struggle to find appropriate care and understanding. We commonly hear of people who’ve gone from their doctor to dentist to physiotherapist without clear answers. This just adds to their frustration.
“…when seeking care, patients reported that they were often sent from dentists to physicians and back again or reported being dismissed without care and with little information on suggested next steps. Patients expressed their frustration at not knowing where to turn for quality care and noted that their primary care physicians and general dentists often did not know how to help them locate qualified specialists.”
Melbourne
Suite 11, Level 2,
517 St Kilda Road,
Melbourne, 3004 VIC
TMJ treatment options
At TMJ Clinics, we provide comprehensive TMJ therapy treatments tailored to your specific needs. Our team includes physiotherapists, dentists and surgeons who collaborate to create your individualised treatment plan.
Schedule your TMJ therapy consult today.
Contact us on 1300 123 865 to speak with our friendly staff or book online now.
At TMJ Clinics, we provide comprehensive TMJ therapy treatments tailored to your specific needs. Our team includes physiotherapists, dentists and surgeons who collaborate to create your individualised treatment plan.
Comprehensive treatment for TMJ disorder
Physiotherapy
Can help to relieve muscle tension, improve jaw movement and restore function.
Medical Treatments
Medications to help manage pain and inflammation.
Dry Needling and Acupuncture
Targets trigger points, seeking to relieve muscle spasms and improve circulation.
Splints
Custom TMJ splints can help to protect your jaw joints and reduce strain.
Injections
Can help to reduce muscle overactivity, teeth grinding, and jaw clenching.
Book an appointment today
Call to book or leave your details below and a member of our team will be in touch shortly.
FAQs
How do I know if I have TMJ disorder?
If you’re experiencing jaw pain, clicking, grinding, headaches or difficulty opening your mouth, you may have TMJ disorder. Please come to TMJ Clinics so we can assess your symptoms and provide a tailored treatment plan.
Does TMJ go away on its own?
Some cases of TMJ improve with rest and lifestyle changes, but chronic TMJ pain often requires professional treatment. The temporomandibular joint is a complex one that you use repeatedly throughout every day—if it’s causing you pain, please come to see a professional at TMJ Clinics.
How is TMJ disorder diagnosed?
Diagnosing TMJ disorder may involve:
- discussing your symptoms
- exploring your medical history—TMJ is more common among people with certain pre-existing medical conditions
- ordering imaging scans and blood tests if necessary.
Do I need a referral to see a TMJ Clinician?
No, you do not need a referral. You can book an appointment directly without a referral.
However, there are some advantages to obtaining a referral. It means your GP, dentist, or health professional provides us with relevant clinical information they’ve already obtained, which can inform your treatment. It also enables us to communicate with others involved in your care to coordinate your treatment.
What is the best treatment for TMJ?
There’s no one-size-fits-all answer to that as it depends on the factors contributing to your TMJ disorder.
At TMJ Clinics, we use a multi-disciplinary approach to provide custom treatment plans. Depending on your needs, we may offer a number of different evidence-based treatments to help relieve muscle tension, ease stress, reduce inflammation and improve function.
Can TMJ cause headaches and ear pain?
Yes. TMJ dysfunction can contribute to tension headaches, migraines, ear pain, and even ringing in the ears (tinnitus).
How do I book an appointment?
Please call your nearest TMJ Clinic on 1300 123 865.
How does my practitioner refer a patient?
Please complete our referral form.
Disclaimer
All information is general and not intended as a substitute for professional advice.
References
- Health Direct, Tempromandibular Joint Dysfunction, https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/temporomandibular-joint-dysfunction, [Accessed 16 March 2025]
- The National Academies of Sciences, Engineering and Medicine, Temporomandibular Disorders: Priorities for Research and Care, https://tmj.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/12/NAM-Report-on-TMD.pdf, [Accessed 16 March 2025]