Common Symptoms of a TMJ Disorder

Headaches, jaw pain, clicking, ear pain… you’re not imagining it.

Do These TMJ Symptoms Sound Familiar?

TMJ problems can show up in more ways than you’d expect. Common symptoms include:

Schedule Your Free TMJ Evaluation with Dr. Herber

  • TMJ-related headaches often feel like tension or pressure and may be worse in the morning or after a long day. If headaches keep coming back despite treatment, the jaw joint may be contributing more than you realize.

  • A sore, tired, or aching jaw that feels stiff, gets “stuck,” or doesn’t open and close smoothly can be a sign of TMJ inflammation or dysfunction.

  • Clicking, popping, or grinding sounds in the jaw aren’t normal, even if they don’t hurt at first. These noises can indicate joint strain or imbalance that may worsen over time.

  • TMJ inflammation can radiate into the cheeks, temples, or around the eyes. Facial pain may feel dull, sharp, or tight and is often misdiagnosed as sinus or nerve pain.

  • Jaw dysfunction can affect posture and muscle balance in the neck and shoulders. Chronic tightness or stiffness in the neck may be your body compensating for TMJ strain.

  • A sore, tight, or “lump in the throat” feeling can sometimes be related to jaw tension or TMJ inflammation. When the muscles around the jaw and neck are overworked, discomfort may radiate into the throat and surrounding areas.

The good news: TMJ issues are often treatable without surgery or more medications. The first step is getting the right diagnosis.

Why TMJ Symptoms Can Be So Frustrating

If you’ve been dealing with daily headaches or jaw discomfort that never fully goes away, it can feel exhausting. Many people don’t realize these symptoms can be connected to TMJ (temporomandibular joint) inflammation, even when dental checkups look “normal.”

TMJ discomfort is sneaky. It can mimic migraines, ear infections, sinus issues, or general stress. Many patients spend years trying different approaches without anyone looking at the TMJ as a main trigger.

That’s why a focused TMJ evaluation matters. It helps confirm whether the joint is involved, and what’s actually driving your symptoms.

What Happens During a Free TMJ Evaluation?

Your evaluation is designed to be clear, helpful, and low-pressure. We’ll:

  • Talk through your symptoms and history

  • Evaluate your bite, jaw joint function, and signs of inflammation

  • Help confirm whether TMJ is likely the root cause

  • Explain next steps and treatment options (including non-surgical, medication-free options)

Dr. Erich W. Herber D.D.S

Over 20 years of experience treating TMJ