Who this service may help
Patients in Cornwall with symptoms, changes, or questions related to tmj assessment may benefit from an assessment. Your dentist will review your oral health and recommend care based on your individual needs.
Common reasons patients seek this service
- Pain in the head, face, ear, neck, throat, shoulder, or back
- Clicking, grinding, or popping noises from the jaw
- Difficulty opening the mouth wide, or closing the teeth together
- Swelling on the side of the face
- Headaches, toothaches, dizziness, earaches, or hearing issues
What your appointment may involve
Your visit begins with a review of your concerns and health history, followed by an examination and any diagnostic records your dentist considers appropriate. Findings, treatment options, likely steps, and alternatives are explained before care proceeds.
Symptoms of TMJ disorder
- Pain in the head, face, ear, neck, throat, shoulder, or back
- Clicking, grinding, or popping noises from the jaw
- Difficulty opening the mouth wide, or closing the teeth together
- Swelling on the side of the face
- Headaches, toothaches, dizziness, earaches, or hearing issues
- Pain behind the eyes
Why TMJ pain spreads
The jaw joint is a ball and socket cushioned by a thin disc of cartilage. When that disc becomes displaced, the lower jaw can shift too far back, irritating nearby nerves and blood vessels. Because the area is rich in nerves and interconnected muscles, pain often radiates to the top of the head, neck, shoulders, and back. Many people spend years treating ear, shoulder, or back pain without addressing the root problem in the jaw.
How we treat TMJ disorder
Treatment is planned individually and may include behavioural changes such as avoiding chewing gum, a custom splint worn for a period of time, or referral for additional assessment. Recommendations depend on the cause and findings.
Why choose York Street Dental Centre
Our Cornwall dental team focuses on clear communication, conservative recommendations, and care planned around your oral health. We explain what we find, answer questions, and discuss appropriate alternatives so you can make an informed decision.
Frequently asked questions
What does TMJ pain feel like?
It varies: jaw clicking or popping, difficulty opening the mouth, and pain that can radiate to the head, ears, neck, shoulders, and back.
Can a dentist treat TMJ disorder?
Yes. Treatment may include behavioural changes, custom splints, and bite adjustments, planned individually for each patient.
Why does my jaw click when I chew?
Clicking often means the cartilage disc inside the joint is displaced. It’s worth an assessment before it progresses to pain or limited movement.
Are new patients welcome?
Yes. York Street Dental Centre welcomes new patients of all ages for family, preventive, restorative, and cosmetic dental care.
Dental information on this page is general and does not replace an examination, diagnosis, or personalized treatment recommendation. Treatment recommendations vary according to individual needs.