Difficulty Chewing
If chewing causes pain, fatigue, or clicking in your jaw, it may be a sign of TMJ dysfunction. Our team provides expert evaluation and personalized treatment to restore comfort and function.
TMJ Disorders and their Impact on Chewing
Our team will assess how your jaw, bite, and surrounding muscles are working together to identify the source of dysfunction. Using therapies like custom oral appliances, muscle rehabilitation, and joint stabilization techniques, we help patients restore comfortable, natural chewing without pain or strain. If you’re struggling with jaw discomfort while eating, our specialized TMJ care can help you regain normal function and enjoy mealtimes again. Contact us today at (541) 380-2500 to schedule an appointment.
Common Symptoms of TMJ-Related Chewing Difficulties
Chewing should be a comfortable, natural function—but when the temporomandibular joint (TMJ) is inflamed or misaligned, it can lead to pain and restricted movement. TMJ disorders often interfere with everyday activities like eating, speaking, and yawning, making mealtimes uncomfortable and frustrating.
TMJ-related chewing difficulty symptoms may include:
- Jaw pain while chewing – A sharp or aching sensation in the jaw joint when biting or chewing food.
- Clicking or popping in the jaw – Audible joint noises that occur during movement, often tied to instability or inflammation.
- Muscle fatigue during meals – The jaw may feel tired or overworked after only a few bites.
- Limited ability to open the mouth fully – Difficulty taking larger bites or opening wide due to joint restrictions.
- Shifting or uneven bite – Teeth may no longer align properly, causing uneven chewing and added stress on the jaw.
- Swelling or tenderness near the jaw – Inflammation around the TMJ that increases discomfort when chewing.
Benefits of TMJ Treatment for Chewing Pain and Dysfunction
Addressing TMJ dysfunction can restore natural chewing ability, reduce discomfort, and prevent long-term joint damage. With non-surgical, personalized care, our team helps patients regain function and confidence at every meal.
Benefits of treating chewing difficulties through TMJ therapy include:
- Pain-free eating – Enjoy meals without jaw soreness, clicking, or locking.
- Improved jaw mobility – Increased comfort and range of motion when opening your mouth.
- Stronger, more stable bite – Proper alignment helps balance muscle use and protect dental structures.
- Relief from inflammation – Reduced joint swelling and muscle strain with targeted therapy.
- Lower risk of further damage – Early treatment prevents worsening of joint misalignment or disc displacement.
- Better quality of life – Restoring comfortable chewing supports better nutrition, digestion, and social interaction.
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CURTIS HAYNIE
Dr Haynie is grateful for the opportunity to practice in his hometown and loves accessing all the activities it provides. His goal is to always live the moment in the Gorge with his family Julia, Aidan, and Ava.
William Payne
Dr. Payne enjoys collaborating with the skilled doctors and team at Hood River Dental and is proud to bring his many years of experience in quality, comfortable dental care to the Hood River community.