TMJ-Related Difficulty Chewing

    For Patients

    Difficulty Chewing and TMJ Disorders

    Difficulty chewing can be more than a temporary discomfort; it may be a sign of an underlying issue with your temporomandibular joint (TMJ). At the TMJ & Sleep Therapy Centre of the Greater Toronto Area, we’re skilled in diagnosing and treating TMJ disorders and related conditions. Are you experiencing pain, clicking, or stiffness when trying to chew? These symptoms may indicate a need for professional evaluation and treatment.

    How Difficulty Chewing Relates to TMJ

    Difficulty chewing refers to pain, discomfort, or an inability to bite or chew food properly. This problem can result from several causes, including dental issues, jaw misalignment, or TMJ disorders. The temporomandibular joint connects your jaw to the skull, enabling smooth movement for eating, speaking, and other activities. When this joint is strained or damaged, it can lead to issues like difficulty chewing.

    TMJ disorders can arise from various factors, such as stress, teeth grinding, arthritis, or trauma. These issues may disrupt the natural function of the jaw, leading to misalignment of the jaw, muscle fatigue or strain, and inflammation in the joint. Left untreated, TMJ disorders can worsen over time, increasing the severity of symptoms and potentially causing further complications.

    Symptoms of Difficulty Chewing

      • Jaw pain or tenderness when eating.
      • Clicking or popping sounds in the jaw.
      • Limited range of motion or jaw locking.
      • Swelling or discomfort in the face.
      • Headaches, earaches, or neck pain associated with chewing.

      Why Choose Us for Your Trouble With Chewing?

      When it comes to treating TMJ-related difficulty chewing, the TMJ & Sleep Therapy Centre of the Greater Toronto Area stands out for its experienced and compassionate care. Our team offers comprehensive evaluations using advanced diagnostic tools, customized treatment plans tailored to your unique needs, and effective, non-invasive solutions delivered by experienced professionals. With a comprehensive approach that addresses both symptoms and underlying causes, we’re dedicated to helping you find lasting relief. Don’t let difficulty chewing impact your daily life—contact us today to take the first step toward improved comfort and well-being.

      TMJ & Difficulty Chewing: Frequently Asked Questions

      Why does my jaw get tired when chewing?

      When the jaw muscles are overworked or the jaw joints are not functioning properly, they can fatigue quickly during chewing. Many patients who experience jaw gets tired when chewing are unknowingly compensating for muscle imbalance or joint strain caused by TMJ dysfunction.

      What causes difficulty chewing?

      Difficulty chewing can be caused by jaw joint inflammation, muscle tension, bite misalignment, or chronic clenching. These factors place extra stress on the jaw muscles, making chewing uncomfortable or exhausting over time.

      Why does my jaw get tired when I chew even soft foods?

      If you find yourself asking why does my jaw get tired when I chew, even with soft foods, it may indicate muscle overuse or limited jaw movement. TMJ-related muscle fatigue can occur regardless of food texture, especially when the jaw is not aligned correctly.

      How is TMJ difficulty chewing different from normal jaw soreness?

      TMJ difficulty chewing often involves persistent fatigue, discomfort, or pain rather than temporary soreness. Patients may also experience clicking, stiffness, or a reduced ability to open their mouth fully.

      Can jaw pain make it hard to chew?

      Yes. Hard to chew jaw pain can occur when inflamed joints or tense muscles make chewing movements uncomfortable. This pain may worsen with prolonged chewing or tougher foods, contributing to difficulty in chewing overall.

      When should I seek help for difficulty in chewing?

      You should seek professional evaluation if chewing becomes consistently uncomfortable, painful, or tiring. If chewing feels difficult to chew on a regular basis or is accompanied by jaw stiffness or headaches, TMJ dysfunction may be contributing to your symptoms.
      TMJ Difficulty Chewing in Toronto

      Learn more about what our patients have to say

      about the TMJ & Sleep Therapy Centre of the Greater Toronto Area

      Google
      Jill Krstajic profile picture
      Jill Krstajic
      Google star 1Google star 2Google star 3Google star 4Google star 5Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google.
      It is not an understatement to say that Dr Goodfellow and his staff have greatly improved the quality of my life! My TMJ pain was unbearable and as a Dental Hygienist I was actually skeptical that the treatment would work, it did and I am grateful! I would gladly recommend Dr Goodfellow for anyone suffering TMJ and Sleep Issues.
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      Lanndis De Lallo profile picture
      Lanndis De Lallo
      Google star 1Google star 2Google star 3Google star 4Google star 5Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google.
      This device changed my life. I have had TMJ for as long as I can remember with a long history of orthodontic work from childhood. For the first time as an adult, I can control my jaw pain, clicking, locking and tension headaches with the night time appliance, which I wear every night - I can feel the difference even going one night without it. The daytime appliance also makes a big difference and now I can wear it periodically. Dr. Goodfellow, Cathie, Tina and the entire team are delightful, helpful and I can't thank them enough for helping me implement this life changing, non-surgical solution to my TMJ!
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      Steve McDonald profile picture
      Steve McDonald
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      Before being treated by Dr. Goodfellow I had severe jaw pain so bad I sometimes could hardly eat. That pain is now virtually gone. I am so grateful and I highly recommend Dr. Goodfellow!
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      Julia Leclerc profile picture
      Julia Leclerc
      Google star 1Google star 2Google star 3Google star 4Google star 5Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google.
      I suffered from severe jaw pain and eventually jaw locking. Dr. Goodfellow not only was able to diagnose the issue, he was able to completely redirect my jaw and sleeping patterns with the mouth guard that I now wear to sleep every night. I don’t even get headaches anymore! The difference has been incredible and I am forever grateful. Highly recommend Dr. Goodfellow and his staff.
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      Sandy Hale profile picture
      Sandy Hale
      Google star 1Google star 2Google star 3Google star 4Google star 5Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google.
      I feel very positive about the treatment I received from Dr. Goodfellow and his team over a six month period. My TMJ disorder symptoms have been resolved to the point where I am almost pain free every day. Dr. Goodfellow helped me to understand both the causes of my jaw issues and how the treatments would work towards healing. His staff are friendly, accommodating and extremely knowledgeable and helped to allay any fears I had about treatments. I highly recommend TMJ & Sleep Therapy to any and all persons suffering from TMJ disorders.
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      Anthony Hajsan profile picture
      Anthony Hajsan
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      Dr. Goodfellow is a good fellow (I know, so original)! This is the only place that has helped with my TMJ.
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      oren dishy profile picture
      oren dishy
      Google star 1Google star 2Google star 3Google star 4Google star 5Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google.
      I've had a click in my jaw for over 30 years and over the past year it was constant pain and difficulty chewing. Dr. Goodfellow and his staff provided me with a non-invasive appliance one for the day and one for night and within 6 months I was pain and click free. It's as if I have brand new jaw with no issues whatsoever. Without a doubt, the best medical treatment I've ever received. I would give six stars if it was available.
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      Paula Carmona-Murphy profile picture
      Paula Carmona-Murphy
      Google star 1Google star 2Google star 3Google star 4Google star 5Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google.
      After years of dealing with TMJ pain (and trying different types of appliances) I saw Dr. Goodfellow. I am thrilled with the results. Dr. Goodfellow and his staff are amazing!
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      Shicheng Wu profile picture
      Shicheng Wu
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      Solved on my jaw pain and overbite issues in an efficient way.