TMJ Specialist Serving the Bay Area

TMJ dysfunction refers to a group of conditions involving the jaw joints, chewing muscles, or structures that control jaw movement. The temporomandibular joints connect the lower jaw to the skull and allow movements needed for speaking, chewing, swallowing, and yawning. TMJ can develop when these joints or surrounding muscles become painful, strained, or do not move comfortably.

The cause of TMJ dysfunction can vary from one patient to another. Jaw-joint changes, arthritis, teeth grinding or clenching, muscle tension, and other factors may contribute to symptoms. At Selective Dental, Dr. Victoria Vuong, DDS, evaluates jaw symptoms and dental factors to help determine what may be contributing to each patient’s discomfort.

Common symptoms of TMJ dysfunction include jaw pain or tenderness, facial discomfort, painful clicking or popping, stiffness, difficulty opening or closing the mouth, and jaw locking. Some patients may also experience recurring headaches, discomfort around the chewing muscles, or difficulty chewing certain foods.

Jaw sounds alone do not always mean treatment is necessary. However, clicking accompanied by pain, restricted movement, difficulty chewing, or recurring jaw discomfort should be evaluated. Dr. Victoria Vuong, DDS, can examine the jaw, teeth, bite, and surrounding structures to determine whether symptoms may be related to TMJ or another dental concern.

A dental professional experienced in TMJ care evaluates the jaw joints, chewing muscles, teeth, bite, and pattern of jaw movement to identify possible sources of pain or dysfunction. The evaluation may include discussing when symptoms began, examining how smoothly the jaw opens and closes, checking for tenderness or joint sounds, and considering additional diagnostic information when appropriate.

Because TMJ dysfunction can have different causes, treatment should be personalized rather than using the same approach for every patient. At Selective Dental, Dr. Victoria Vuong, DDS, remains the primary dentist guiding each patient’s TMJ evaluation and treatment recommendations, while our team supports patients throughout their care.

TMJ dysfunction can interfere with everyday activities that depend on comfortable jaw movement. Patients may experience difficulty chewing firm foods, opening their mouth widely, speaking for extended periods, yawning, or maintaining comfortable jaw movement throughout the day. Jaw stiffness or recurring discomfort may also make meals and routine dental care less comfortable.

The impact of TMJ dysfunction varies considerably. Some people experience mild, occasional symptoms, while others develop recurring pain or restricted jaw movement. A professional evaluation can help identify which structures may be involved and determine whether monitoring, conservative care, or another treatment approach may be appropriate.

Frequently Asked Questions About TMJ Care

No. Clicking or popping without pain or restricted movement can occur without a significant TMJ problem. Painful clicking, locking, or limited movement should be evaluated.

Yes. Repeated grinding or clenching can place additional strain on the jaw joints and chewing muscles, which may contribute to soreness, tightness, or fatigue.

Morning jaw stiffness may be associated with nighttime grinding or clenching, muscle tension, or another jaw-joint concern. Persistent symptoms should be professionally evaluated.

Yes. TMJ dysfunction can affect the joints and muscles used for chewing, making certain foods or prolonged chewing uncomfortable for some patients.

No. Some TMJ symptoms may improve over time, while others can recur or persist. The course depends on the cause, severity, and individual response to care.

Yes. A jaw that repeatedly catches, locks, or becomes difficult to open or close should be evaluated, especially when it interferes with eating, speaking, or normal jaw movement.

At Selective Dental in San Jose, CA, Dr. Victoria Vuong, DDS, evaluates jaw pain, stiffness, clicking, locking, chewing difficulty, headaches, and other symptoms that may be associated with TMJ dysfunction. Dr. Vuong considers the patient’s dental history, jaw movement, teeth, bite, chewing muscles, and other relevant findings before discussing appropriate treatment options.

Dr. Vuong remains the primary dentist directing TMJ-related care, supported by our team at Selective Dental. We focus on helping patients understand their symptoms, possible contributing factors, and available treatment options while creating an individualized approach based on their dental health and jaw function.

Selective Dental offers financing through CareCredit, LendingClub, and Sunbit for eligible patients who need flexibility with dental treatment costs. Promotional 0% interest options may be available when qualifying balances are paid within 12 months, subject to approval and applicable terms. Established patients may also be able to divide their co-pay portion into two or more interest-free payments.

Clear communication can make it easier for patients to describe jaw symptoms and understand recommended care. Dr. Victoria Vuong, DDS, and our team at Selective Dental can assist patients in English, Spanish, Chinese, Filipino, and Vietnamese, helping individuals and families communicate comfortably about their dental concerns.

Patients from Evergreen, East San Jose, Milpitas, Santa Clara, Campbell, Sunnyvale, Cupertino, Saratoga, Los Gatos, and surrounding Bay Area communities can visit Selective Dental in San Jose for a TMJ-focused dental evaluation. Dr. Victoria Vuong, DDS, and our team provide personalized care for patients experiencing jaw pain, stiffness, clicking, locking, headaches, or difficulty with comfortable jaw movement. For more information, contact us today or book an appointment online. We are conveniently located at 3151 South White Road, Suite 203 San Jose, CA 95148. We proudly serve patients throughout San Jose CA, the Bay Area and surrounding Santa Clara County—including Evergreen CA, Silver Creek CA, Berryessa CA, Alum Rock CA, Willow Glen CA and neighboring Milpitas CA, Santa Clara CA, and Campbell CA.