Woman grabbing forehead in frustration

TMJ Disorders: Signs & Symptoms in Encino & San Fernando Valley

TMD sufferers may experience a variety of symptoms. Some experience multiple symptoms, and in most cases, having a single symptom does not mean you have TMD.

Signs and symptoms of TMJ disorders may include:

  • Pain or tenderness of your jaw
  • Pain in one or both of the temporomandibular joints
  • Aching pain in and around your ear
  • Difficulty chewing or pain while chewing
  • Aching facial pain when you eat or talk
  • Locking or limitation of the joint, making it difficult to move your mouth
  • Clicking sound or grating feeling when you open your mouth or chew

Causes of TMD

Injury: If there is a severe injury to the jaw, it may cause bleeding or inflammation in the TMJ joint. This may cause the disc between the ball and socket to lock and pain and swelling to occur.

Clenching or Grinding your teeth (called bruxing):  Many people clench their jaws or habitually express their stress by grinding their teeth. Both of these habits include increased activity of the jaw muscles and may add stress to the TM joint. In many people, clenching and grinding happens at night and they are unaware until they awaken with a sore jaw.

Grinding teeth

I travel far to see Dr. Simmons, and I always feel it is time well spent. The office staff is so nice, the assistants are so kind and listen to what you have to say, and they return phone call questions promptly.

Dr. Simmons always greets me warmly, and is patient with all my questions…and I ask a lot of questions.

— Debra F.

My initial visit with Dr.Simmons was very thorough. He spent a lot of time with me and did a very complete exam.

— Steven M.

Great doctor and office staff

— Rochelle D.

I was seen right away and Dr. Simmons and his wonderful assistant got right to the point of why I was there and analyzed my problem and set about finding a solution to it. They are wonderful

— Linda B.

I Actually Look Forward to Dental Visits! True! I have been seeing Dr. Simmons biannually for over 20 years and every single visit without exception has been up to the highest standard in every way. From the moment you walk into his beautifully appointed office you are met with genuine smiles from courteous office staff. In 20+ years I’ve never had to wait but a few moments before being seen. Dr. Simmons is kind, empathetic, adept at making you feel at ease but most importantly he is gentle. He employs awesome dental hygienists who are also gentle, kind, and very professional in demeanor and approach to handling patients. Dr. Simmons office staff members from front to back are exceptional with their pleasing personalities and willingness to be helpful with all matters. It is always a pleasure indeed to see my Dentist!

— Lorraine S.

We have been looking for a new dentist for a very long time. We are very picky and very thorough when looking for a physician.
I’m happy to say that the offices, staff and the doctor were very impressive.

— Neil A.

always a pleasure

— Jeffrey M.

A Doctor That Cares. My jaw hurt, headaches were awful, and the inside of my mouth looked like hamburger…not in a good way.
Dr. Simmons treated my TMD (temporomandibular joint disorder) and the relief is fantastic. He is a problem fixer….he figures out creative ways to treat nearly impossible ailments.

— Randi B.

Dr. Simmons is very thorough and professional in his practice. He answers all questions with respect and truthfulness. The office staff are also very honest and professional. I would highly recommend Dr. Simmons dental practice.

— Lisa V.

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Extatic to have a great doctor. Great thorough doctor

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Happy Longtime patient. Been going to Michael Simmons for forever and would never go anywhere else!

— Lisa L.

If you are looking for one of the best Dentists… I recently became a patient of Dr Simmon’s after facing numerous issues ranging from sleep apnea, jaw/tooth pain as well as needing a replacement crown on a moler. After being referred to Dr Simmons by my internist who holds him in the highest regard, I had immediate confidence in his diagnostic abilities, highly technical skills as well as the thorough and compassionate manner in which he and his lovely staff cares for his patients. If you are looking for someone who will provide you the highest level of care avail from basic dentistry to complex sleep issues, you should absolutely make an appt with Dr. Simmons.

— Lucy B.

Well worth the Drive. Dr Simmons and the entire staff at his office are always so welcoming and pleasant. My Wife and I come a long way for the best dental experience every single visit.

— Steven O.