Experiencing jaw discomfort? Do you hear a clicking sound when you open your mouth, or wake up with a headache and clenched teeth?

Pain and discomfort in the jaw and facial region can affect speaking, chewing, sleep and everyday comfort. A careful assessment of your symptoms can help identify their possible cause and determine the most appropriate management approach for your individual needs.

The practice provides specialised assessment for:

• Pain in the jaw muscles, jaws or temporomandibular joints
• Difficulty or limitation in opening the mouth, or a sensation of the jaw “locking”
• Jaw-joint sounds, such as clicking or grating
• Persistent pain when no clear dental cause can be identified
• Headaches or discomfort around the ear that may be related to jaw function
• Bruxism—that is, clenching or grinding the teeth during sleep or throughout the day
• Tooth wear caused by mechanical stress or acid erosion
• Snoring and obstructive sleep apnoea, using oral appliances where clinically appropriate, and always in collaboration with a sleep physician

The assessment is based on current, internationally recognised and evidence-based diagnostic criteria. It includes detailed medical and dental history, and a thorough clinical examination, with the aim of understanding the full range of factors that may be involved with your symptoms.

In addition to the teeth, muscles and jaw joints, factors such as sleep quality, general health, stress and the presence of other chronic pain symptoms are also taken into consideration. Where necessary, care is coordinated with your general dentist or other healthcare professionals.

Each case is assessed individually, without rushing into unnecessary interventions, and with an emphasis on conservative, personalised and evidence-based care.

If you would like an assessment of persistent symptoms or a specialist second opinion, please contact the practice.