TMJ Treatment When Symptoms Feel Like Sinus Pressure

As fall pollen picks up in Durham, it’s easy to blame facial pressure or headaches on allergies. Sometimes the culprit lives a little lower and closer to your ears: the temporomandibular joint (TMJ). At Aesthetic Oral Health, our team evaluates the jaw joint and surrounding jaw muscles to pinpoint what’s actually causing your discomfort, then creates a plan that protects both your health and your smile. 

What is the TMJ and why can it feel like “sinus” pressure?

Your temporomandibular joint is the hinge that connects your lower jaw to your skull. When the joint or chewing muscles are irritated, you may feel jaw pain, facial pain, jaw clicking, reduced jaw movement, or headaches that many people describe as pressure near the side of the jaw. 

Could it be TMJ or fall allergies?

If you notice jaw clicking, facial tenderness, or limited range of motion when you open wide, and headaches that don’t respond to typical allergy remedies, your jaw joint may be involved. A proper evaluation with a dentist includes your health history, a hands-on exam, and, when appropriate, imaging such as X-rays or MRI to guide care. 

Signs we look for during your visit

At Aesthetic Oral Health, we assess symptoms of TMD (temporomandibular disorders) that can include jaw pain, muscle tenderness, headaches, swelling on one or both sides of the face, jaw clicking, and reduced mobility. We also observe normal jaw movement and overall range of motion to understand how the joint and jaw muscles are functioning. 

How we diagnose and personalize care

We start with a detailed conversation about your health history and current symptoms, then perform a focused exam of the jaw joint, jaw movement, and chewing muscles. When needed, we use advanced imaging, including X-rays or magnetic resonance imaging, to get a clearer picture. Your plan is tailored to your needs and may involve conservative treatments designed to lower muscle tension and protect the teeth. 

Conservative options that can relieve TMD pain

Your care may include several approaches that work together to calm irritated tissues and restore comfort:

• Nightguards (intraoral appliances). A custom guard cushions the teeth, reduces strain on the TMJ, and helps control clenching or grinding.
  
• Physical therapy and lifestyle guidance. Gentle exercises and daily habit changes can improve jaw movement and reduce muscle tension.
  
• Dental treatments. When the bite or a restoration is contributing, selective restorative or orthodontic care may help.
  
• Medications. Short-term pain relief and inflammation control can support healing. In severe cases, surgery is considered a last resort.
  

Why a custom nightguard often makes a difference

If clenching or grinding is part of your symptoms of TMJ, a well-fitted nightguard can be a simple, effective tool. Custom guards protect the teeth, ease pressure on the jaw joint, and support healthier jaw muscles while you sleep. Many patients also notice fewer morning headaches and less facial pain once they start wearing their appliance consistently. 

Prevention and self-care between visits

Small choices protect your progress. Wear appropriate mouth protection during sports and avoid using your teeth to open packages or bite hard objects. These habits help you safeguard restorations and reduce the risk of flare-ups near the TMJ and chewing muscles.

How our approach supports both comfort and confidence

We treat your symptoms and the source. That means protecting the jaw joint, helping you regain comfortable jaw movement, and preserving the appearance of your smile. Our philosophy blends aesthetics and function, so your plan supports daily comfort, long-term oral health, and a smile you’re proud to share. 

When to call

If you feel “sinus-like” pressure near the side of your jaw, frequent headaches, or jaw clicking that won’t go away, professional care is the next best step. Our team offers a comprehensive exam, imaging when needed, and a personalized path forward with TMJ Treatment options that prioritize conservative care first. 

Services to consider

• TMJ Treatment in Durham, NC
  
• Custom Nightguards
  
• Preventive Dentistry and routine checkups
  These services work together to reduce tmd pain, protect the bottom teeth and upper teeth from wear, and support normal jaw movement over time.
  

Ready for TMJ relief?

At Aesthetic Oral Health, your comfort is just as important as your results. 

Schedule a visit so we can evaluate your jaw joint, discuss your goals, and build a plan that fits your life. Our compassionate, experienced team will be with you every step of the way.