Pain in the temporomandibular joints is often caused by tension in the chewing muscles, and all that is required to treat it is muscle-relaxing physiotherapy.

However, sometimes pain in the temporomandibular  joints is caused by a displacement of the cartilage disc, or wear-and-tear in the joint.  This not only causes the patient to suffer pain, but a clicking or rubbing sound is also audible during chewing.

Both conditions are either treated conservatively (with physiotherapy) or surgically, depending on the severity of the disorder and the degree of discomfort the patient is experiencing. A correct diagnosis and long-term follow-up by an oral and maxillofacial surgeon are essential.