Temporomandibular joint disorder (TMJ or TMD) doesn’t just affect your mouth. It can also radiate discomfort to areas like your neck, shoulders, and upper back.
At Softouch Dental Care, Dr. Michael Chung brings over 15 years of training from the Las Vegas Institute for Advanced Dental Studies. He specializes in comprehensive restorative dentistry, including effective, patient-focused TMJ treatment.
Learn more about the link between neck and shoulder pain and TMJ below.
The TMJ-Pain Connection
The temporomandibular joints are located on either side of your jaw and help you chew, speak, and yawn. When these joints become misaligned or inflamed, they can affect the surrounding muscles, leading to discomfort that extends beyond the jaw.
Here’s how TMJ can trigger neck and shoulder issues:
- Muscle tension: Misalignment causes jaw muscles to overwork, straining nearby neck and shoulder muscles.
- Postural changes: Jaw discomfort can subtly alter how you hold your head and shoulders, putting stress on upper body muscles.
- Referred pain: The nerves around the TMJ share pathways with those in your neck and shoulders, making it easy for pain to spread.
Symptoms That Might Indicate TMJ-Related Pain
You may be dealing with TMJ if your neck and shoulder pain is accompanied by:
- Jaw clicking or popping
- Facial soreness or tension
- Headaches or migraines
- Limited jaw movement
- Earaches or ringing in the ears (tinnitus)
Solutions to Consider
If TMJ is behind your chronic neck and shoulder pain, several solutions are available:
- Custom night guards can reduce clenching.
- Bite realignment or neuromuscular dentistry techniques can relieve joint strain.
- TENS therapy relaxes jaw muscles and eases tension with mild electrical pulses.
For some patients, a single treatment is sufficient, while others require a combination. Dr. Chung will assess your condition and help you decide the best way to proceed.
Get Relief from TMJ-Related Pain Today
Don’t let neck and shoulder pain ruin your day. If you suspect TMJ may be the cause, contact Softouch Dental Care to explore your options. Call 703-319-6990 to book a consultation with Dr. Michael Chung in Oakton, VA.
