Q: What is TMJ dysfunction?
A: TMJ dysfunction (TMD) refers to problems in the temporomandibular joint, which connects the jawbone to the skull. Dysfunction can cause pain, clicking, popping, headaches, or difficulty opening and closing the mouth.
Q: What causes TMJ dysfunction?
A: Common causes include:
- Jaw clenching or bruxism teeth grinding
- Poor oral rest posture (tongue low, lips apart, jaw clenched)
- Mouth breathing or airway restriction
- Misaligned bite or orthodontic relapse
- Stress and muscle tension
- Trauma or arthritis in the joint
Q: How is the TMJ connected to airway and breathing?
A: The TMJ and airway are linked through posture and muscle balance:
- Mouth breathing shifts the jaw downward and forward, straining the joint
- Low tongue posture reduces support for the palate and jaw, changing mechanics
- Airway restriction can lead to nighttime clenching or grinding as the body tries to stabilize breathing
- Poor oral function increases strain on jaw muscles, worsening TMJ symptoms
Q: What are common symptoms of TMJ dysfunction?
A:
- Clicking, popping, or locking of the jaw
- Jaw pain or stiffness
- TMJ headache, neck pain, or shoulder tension
- Ear pain, ringing (tinnitus), or pressure
- Facial asymmetry or swelling
- Difficulty chewing or swallowing comfortably
- Sleep problems linked to airway strain
Q: How does BreatheWorks evaluate TMJ dysfunction?
A: We assess:
- Jaw movement and stability
- Oral rest posture (tongue, lips, teeth)
- Breathing patterns (nasal vs. mouth)
- Swallowing and chewing efficiency
- Muscle tone and tension patterns
We coordinate with dentists, orthodontists, ENTs, and medical providers for comprehensive care.
Q: How does therapy help with TMJ dysfunction?
A: At BreatheWorks, therapy focuses on:
- Oral posture retraining (tongue to palate, lips sealed, teeth apart)
- Muscle balance exercises for jaw, lips, and tongue
- Breathing therapy to restore nasal breathing and reduce airway strain
- Swallow retraining to eliminate tongue thrust and reduce jaw stress
- Posture coaching for head, neck, and shoulders
- Collaboration with dental providers for bite and appliance support
Q: Can therapy reduce jaw clenching or grinding?
A: Yes. By addressing airway restriction and oral posture, therapy reduces the body’s drive to clench at night. Patients often report fewer headaches, less jaw pain, and more restorative sleep.
Q: Can TMJ therapy be done virtually?
A: Yes. Our virtual care program is as effective as in-person care. Through telehealth, we provide:
- Live posture and exercise coaching
- Guidance for habit reduction (clenching, mouth breathing)
- Progress tracking and symptom check-ins
This makes therapy accessible for patients nationwide.
Q: Where do you offer in-person care?
A: Our clinics are located in:
- Portland, Oregon
- Eugene, Oregon
- Lake Oswego, Oregon
- Bellevue, Washington
- Amarillo, Texas
We also offer virtual therapy nationwide.
Quick FAQs
Does TMJ dysfunction cause headaches? Yes—jaw muscle strain often contributes to headaches and facial pain.
Can poor posture cause TMJ issues? Yes—forward head posture and poor tongue posture increase TMJ strain.
Does airway therapy help TMJ? Yes—restoring nasal breathing and proper oral posture reduces jaw stress.
Can TMJ improve without surgery? Many cases improve with therapy, posture correction, and interdisciplinary care.
Next Steps
If TMJ pain, clicking, or clenching is affecting your life, therapy can restore balance between the jaw, airway, and oral muscles.
- Schedule a TMJ & airway evaluation (in-person or virtual)
- Providers: Refer a patient to BreatheWorks
