At Tooronga Family Dentistry in Glen Iris, we see many patients experiencing jaw pain, clicking, locking, or tightness in the jaw joint. This discomfort is often related to the Temporomandibular Joint (TMJ), the hinge connecting your jaw to your skull.

TMJ symptoms can be caused by a range of factors, including clenching, grinding, misalignment, injury, or lifestyle habits. However, one of the most common triggers we see in Glen Iris patients is stress, which leads to increased muscle tension and overuse of the jaw muscles.

If you experience TMJ discomfort, jaw fatigue, or clicking when opening and closing your mouth, gentle therapeutic exercises can help relieve tension and improve jaw mobility.

Jaw Stretching Exercises

Gentle jaw stretching works similarly to stretching muscles at the gym. These movements help release tightness in the jaw muscles and improve mobility.

How to Perform Jaw Stretches

• Slowly open your mouth and close it again in a controlled, relaxed motion

• Avoid forcing your jaw — never overstretch

• Stop immediately if you feel sharp pain

• Increase movement gradually as the muscles adapt

These stretches help reduce muscle tension caused by stress, teeth grinding, or poor posture.

Shoulder, Neck & Head Exercises

Jaw muscles are closely connected to the neck, shoulders, and head, so tension in these areas often contributes to TMJ pain.

Helpful Movements Include:

• Forward and backward shoulder rolls

• Neck tilts from side to side

• Slow neck rotations

• Chin tucks for posture support

Start with just a few minutes a day and progress gradually.
If symptoms increase, stop and seek advice from Dr Daniel Kaufman or your GP.

These exercises improve posture and muscle balance, reducing strain on the TMJ.

When Exercises Aren’t Enough

Sometimes TMJ symptoms require additional treatment, especially when pain or restricted jaw movement affects daily life.

You may benefit from:

Hard Occlusal Splint (Night Guard)

A custom-made splint can:

• Reduce clenching and grinding

• Stabilise the jaw joint

• Protect teeth at night

• Reduce morning jaw stiffness

Many Glen Iris patients experience significant relief once they begin wearing a properly fitted occlusal splint.

Further TMJ Assessment

If you experience:

• Jaw locking

• Clicking or popping with pain

• Difficulty opening wide

• Persistent headaches

• Ear pain or facial tenderness

…it’s time for a TMJ examination.

Need Help With Jaw Pain in Glen Iris?

TMJ conditions are highly treatable, and early intervention prevents long-term discomfort. You can book online or 👉Call

📍 Conveniently located for families in Glen Iris, Tooronga, Malvern and Hawthorn East

We will assess your jaw function, identify underlying causes, and recommend the most effective treatment plan.