Jaw pain in Perth — TMJ & TMD treatment
Mild discomfort during mouth movement or severe pain affecting your daily life — jaw pain has many causes. We diagnose what's driving yours and provide targeted treatment, from custom splints to orthodontic options.
Jaw pain consultation
Quoted after assessment
Treatment cost depends on diagnosis — custom splint, muscle relaxants, orthodontic options
Pricing is indicative only. We assess the source of the pain and quote in writing before any treatment.
What's causing your jaw pain?
The temporomandibular joint (TMJ) — where the jaw meets the skull in front of your ears — is one of the most-used joints in the body. Identifying the cause of pain is the first step to proper treatment.
Teeth grinding (Bruxism)
One of the leading causes. Often unconscious during sleep — repetitive grinding wears down the joint and teeth. A night splint protects the teeth. More on grinding.
Temporomandibular disorder (TMD)
Malalignment between the cartilage, ligaments and jawbone. The jaw clicks when opening or closing. Symptoms include ear pain, headaches, dizziness, ringing in the ears.
Malocclusion (misaligned bite)
Overbite, underbite or crooked teeth that stress the jaw long-term. May respond to Invisalign or other orthodontic options.
Trauma
Like any bone, the jawbone can be broken or dislocated. Accidents and sports injuries cause bruising, swelling and pain that need professional assessment.
Dental problems
Cavities, abscesses or gum disease can spread to affect the jawbone and produce jaw pain.
Osteomyelitis
Bacterial bone infection — causes jaw pain, fever and facial swelling. Treated with a course of antibiotics.
Symptoms to watch for
- Joint and muscle tenderness
- Limited range of motion (trouble opening wide)
- Chronic ringing in the ears, earaches
- Headaches, dizziness
- Jaw locking
- Toothache, facial swelling
- Clicking or popping sounds when opening or closing
Treatment options
Immediate relief
- Over-the-counter pain relievers (ibuprofen, paracetamol)
- Heat or ice pack for 10 minutes to relax overactive muscles
- Massage of the sore areas, neck and TMJ
Lifestyle changes
- Stress reduction — meditation, exercise, sleep
- Avoid chewy, tough or crunchy foods that overuse jaw muscles
Medical treatments
Custom mouth splint
If grinding or clenching is the cause, a custom-fitted mouthguard prevents further damage.
Muscle relaxants
Prescribed to relieve muscle tension in the jaw.
Antibiotics
If a bacterial infection is involved (osteomyelitis or dental abscess).
Orthodontic treatment
If malocclusion is the cause — Invisalign, crowns or other alignment options.
Botox injections
In severe cases where jaw muscles are chronically clenched, Botox can be used as a muscle relaxant.
Combination approach
Often the best results come from combining a splint, lifestyle changes and (where needed) orthodontic alignment.
Two Perth locations, one phone number
Perth CBD clinic
Level 1, 300 Murray Street, Perth WA 6000
Mon–Thu 8:30am–5pm · Fri 8:30am–4:30pm · Closed weekends
DirectionsBelmont clinic
171 Belmont Avenue, Belmont WA 6104
Mon–Thu 8am–6pm · Fri 8am–4pm · Sat 8am–2pm · Free parking
DirectionsJaw pain questions, answered
Is jaw pain a dental emergency?
Severe jaw pain with swelling or fever needs immediate attention — it can signal an abscess or infection. Mild, intermittent jaw pain is best assessed at a regular appointment but shouldn't be ignored long-term.
Can teeth grinding cause jaw pain?
Yes. Grinding (bruxism) is one of the leading causes of chronic jaw soreness. A custom-fitted night splint usually prevents the damage and the pain.
How long does a custom mouth splint take to make?
Usually about two weeks. We take an impression of your teeth, send it to the lab and fit the finished splint at a follow-up appointment.
Is TMJ pain permanent?
Not usually. Most TMJ pain responds to a combination of splint, lifestyle changes and stress management. Persistent cases benefit from orthodontic alignment or other targeted treatments.
Can stress cause jaw pain?
Yes — stress is a major contributor. People clench or grind in response to stress, often unconsciously. Stress reduction is part of effective TMJ treatment.
When should I see a dentist about jaw pain?
If pain persists more than a few days, gets worse, is severe, or comes with swelling, fever, or difficulty opening your mouth — book an appointment. The sooner we identify the cause, the sooner you get relief.
Jaw pain in Perth? Get a clear diagnosis.
Call us — we'll assess your TMJ, identify the cause and explain treatment options.
$349 first emergency visit · same-day, subject to availability · Both Perth clinics
