Temporomandibular joint problems – Causes, symptoms and treatment

German Clinic Marbella

The temporomandibular joint – also known as the temporomandibular joint – is one of the most complex joints in the human body. It connects the lower jaw to the skull and enables essential functions such as chewing, speaking and swallowing. Despite its central role, the jaw joint often goes unnoticed in public perception – until discomfort arises. Problems in the temporomandibular joint, especially in the context of craniomandibular dysfunction (CMD), are common and can significantly affect quality of life. At the German Clinic Marbella we offer an interdisciplinary diagnostic and treatment concept for this dysfunction.

Common symptoms of a temporomandibular joint disorder

Problems in the temporomandibular joint often manifest themselves in a variety of ways. Typical symptoms include:

Pain in front of the ear, in the jaw area or when chewing
Clicking or rubbing noises when opening or closing the mouth
Limited mouth opening or locking of the jaw
Tension headaches, neck or shoulder pain
Locking sensation when moving the jaw
Sensory disturbances or paresthesias of the face
Tinnitus associated with jaw pain

These symptoms usually point to a functional disorder in the jaw joint or an overload of the masticatory muscles.

Diagnosis at German Clinic Marbella

Diagnosis begins with a detailed anamnesis as well as a manual and functional examination of mandibular mobility. If necessary, our specialists use imaging methods such as X-rays, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) or computed tomography (CT) to identify structural alterations in the joint – for example, osteoarthritis, inflammation or dislocation of the articular disc (cartilaginous disc). It always focuses on a comprehensive analysis of the functional unit composed of teeth, jaw joint and musculature.

Treatment options for temporomandibular joint pain

Therapy in our specialized clinic is based on the cause and severity of the disorder. Our well-established therapeutic concepts include:

Jaw physiotherapy with mobilization, massage and heat treatments to relax tense musculature
Splint therapy with customized unloading splints for joint relief
Muscle relaxation exercises and biomechanically guided training methods
Pharmacological treatment with analgesics and anti-inflammatory drugs.
Orthodontic corrections in cases of dental malposition or malocclusion
Surgical interventions in rare cases, for example, with intra-articular blocks or severe dislocations.
Strategies for stress management and psychological support

When necessary, our dental, physiotherapy and psychosomatic teams work closely together to achieve sustainable improvements.

When to see a doctor?

Early consultation with a physician is recommended when:

Jaw pain persists for several days
There are acute limitations of movement or locking of the jaw.
The jaw joint clicks and this causes pain.
Frequent headaches or facial pains occur without clear cause
There is suspicion of inflammation, osteoarthritis or joint damage.

Psychoemotional factors such as stress or nocturnal bruxism should also be taken seriously – especially in the presence of recurrent symptoms.

Causes of jaw clicking and temporomandibular joint dislocations

Jaw clicking usually originates from a malposition of the disc within the joint. During mouth movements, this cartilage may move briefly and produce an audible “click” when it returns to its place.

Jaw joint dislocations occur as a result of severe stress, excessive opening of the mouth (e.g. yawning) or after trauma. In these cases the lower jaw is “locked” in an open position, resulting in pain and limited movement.

Recommended exercises to support temporomandibular joint function

Our jaw physiotherapists teach you simple techniques to relieve and mobilize the joint:

Controlled opening and closing of the mouth in front of the mirror (observing symmetry).
Place the tip of the tongue on the roof of the mouth to practice guided movements.
Relaxation techniques with application of heat to the masticatory muscles
Self-massage of the masseter and temporalis muscle to reduce tensions.

These measures can be applied regularly to reduce the burden and alleviate symptoms.

Who is particularly affected?

Temporomandibular joint disorders are more frequent in some groups:

People with high levels of stress or continuous psychological burdens
Persons with dental or mandibular malformations
Patients with rheumatic diseases or arthrosis
Patients who have had trauma or surgery in the facial area.
Women (most frequently diagnosed due to hormonal and muscular factors)

Healing process and prognosis

Acute inflammations of the mandibular joint may disappear in a few weeks with constant treatment. Chronic or structural alterations require a longer term interdisciplinary therapeutic approach. The duration of recovery always depends on the cause, the clinical picture and the active collaboration of the patient.

Psychosomatics and stress as triggers

Prolonged psychological stress is one of the main risk factors for craniomandibular dysfunctions. Stress-induced nocturnal clenching or grinding overloads the jaw muscles and joints. This can lead to chronic pain, malformations and functional disorders. Therefore, at German Clinic Marbella we also integrate stress medicine methods such as relaxation techniques, biofeedback or psychological interventions.

Integral therapeutic concept on the Costa del Sol

In our German Clinic Marbella we integrate dental, physiotherapeutic and psychosomatic approaches in a patient-centered treatment. Our goal is not only short-term pain relief, but sustainable restoration of joint function and quality of life.