Struggling to open your mouth wide enough to eat comfortably, or waking up with a sore, stiff jaw? You’re not alone and you may be wondering whether your first call should be to your dentist or a physiotherapist.
It makes sense to think of the dentist first. Your jaw holds your teeth, and dentists are the experts of the mouth. However, the jaw is also a joint is known as the temporomandibular joint (TMJ) which is controlled by muscles, ligaments, and the cervical spine. This complex interplay is where a specialised physiotherapist becomes essential. Knowing who to call first can save you significant time and unnecessary treatment.
How Common Is Jaw Pain?
Jaw pain and dysfunction are far more common than most people realise. Up to 60–70% of the general population experiences at least one sign or symptom of a temporomandibular disorder (TMD) at some point in their lifetime. Symptoms most commonly arise between the ages of 20 and 40, and women are significantly more likely to be affected than men.
Types of Jaw Disorders We Treat in Perth
At the HNJ Clinic Karrinyup in Perth, we regularly see patients presenting with jaw and facial pain, ear pain, headaches, clicking, grating, locking, clenching, grinding, and movement abnormalities. We classify these broadly into three categories, though patients may present with a combination.
1. Masticatory Muscle Disorders
These involve the muscles used for chewing and are the most common form of TMD. They are often triggered by tension, stress, pain, or habits such as teeth grinding (bruxism).
2. Temporomandibular Joint Disorders
These are structural or mechanical issues within the joint itself, including:
- Internal Disc Derangement: The most common intra-articular cause, where the protective disc between the mandible and skull is displaced.
- With Reduction: The disc “pops” back into place during movement, often causing a clicking sound.
- Without Reduction: The disc remains displaced, often leading to a “locked jaw” and limited opening.
- Degenerative Joint Disease such as osteoarthritis.
- Hypermobility: Unstable jaw joints due to laxity of supporting soft tissues.
3. TMD-Associated Headaches
These are headaches specifically attributed to a primary TMD. They typically present as pain in the temple region that is aggravated by jaw function, such as chewing or opening wide.
Importantly, jaw, ear, and facial pain can also be referred from the upper neck region. This is why a thorough assessment by our Headache, Neck and Jaw physiotherapists is vital to ensure treatment is targeted at the true source of your pain.
Physiotherapist vs. Dentist: Who Should You See?
A collaborative approach between a physiotherapist and a dentist ensures no stone is left unturned. While both professionals share the goal of reducing your pain and restoring function, their focus areas differ:
The Dentist’s Focus: “The Hardware”
Your dentist examines dental anatomy, how your teeth fit together (occlusal dynamics), and signs of physical wear from grinding. A common dental treatment is an occlusal splint (a custom mouthguard). While a splint protects your teeth and unloads the TMJ, it doesn’t address the underlying habit of clenching which is where physiotherapy becomes essential.
The Physiotherapist’s Focus: “The Software”
A physiotherapist assesses muscle imbalances, joint mobility, and how your neck and posture contribute to jaw tension. At the HNJ Clinic, our treatment approach includes manual therapy, soft tissue massage, joint mobilisation, dry needling, and specific graded exercise prescription to retrain overworked muscles. You can learn more about our TMJ jaw treatment and neck pain treatment on our website.
Why a Combined Approach Gets the Best Results
Research shows that combining physiotherapy with dental interventions leads to better long-term outcomes than either treatment alone. In an ideal world, management of TMD should involve a dentist and a physiotherapist working collaboratively each addressing their area of expertise in parallel.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can a physiotherapist treat TMJ disorder?
Yes. Physiotherapists with specialised training in orofacial conditions are highly effective in treating TMD. Our physios assess the muscles, joints, and neck structures contributing to your jaw pain and create an individualised treatment plan.
What is the difference between TMD and TMJ?
TMJ refers to the temporomandibular joint itself, the joint connecting your jaw to your skull. TMD (temporomandibular disorder) is the umbrella term for the range of conditions that affect this joint and the surrounding muscles and tissues.
How long does TMJ physiotherapy take?
Treatment duration varies depending on the type and severity of your condition. Many patients notice meaningful improvement within four to six sessions, while more complex cases may require a longer course of treatment. Your physiotherapist will give you a realistic timeframe at your initial assessment.
Is jaw physiotherapy covered by private health insurance in Australia?
In most cases, yes. Physiotherapy for TMD is typically claimable under the extras cover of Australian private health insurance policies. We recommend checking with your individual insurer for your specific rebate entitlements.
Do I need a referral to see a TMJ physiotherapist?
No referral is needed to book an appointment at the HNJ Clinic Karrinyup. You can contact us directly to arrange your initial consultation.
Book your appointment at the Headache Neck and Jaw Clinic Perth
Ready to get answers to your jaw pain? Book an appointment with Megan van Selm and the team at the HNJ Clinic Karrinyup.
Phone: 08 6118 6680
Email: info@hnjclinic.com.au
With over 25 years of international clinical experience, Megan specialises in the assessment and treatment of complex headache, neck, and jaw conditions. She leads the physiotherapy team at the HNJ Clinic Karrinyup, helping patients find lasting relief from TMD, migraines, and orofacial pain.