How to choose the best TMJ specialist in Dubai for jaw pain and clicking

Key facts

• TMD includes muscle, disc and joint problems
• A full history and exam should come first
• CBCT shows bone and airway; MRI shows the disc
• Night guards protect teeth but rarely change joint load
• Locked jaw or facial trauma needs urgent care

Diagnosis before treatment

Temporomandibular disorders (TMD) cover several different problems: tired, overworked jaw muscles, a displaced disc that clicks or catches, joint inflammation or wear, and pain referred from teeth, sinuses or the neck. Each needs a different approach, so a good TMJ clinician starts with a detailed history and examination — how wide you can open, which movements hurt, whether the jaw deviates, joint sounds, muscle tenderness, tooth wear and how the teeth meet. Questions about sleep, snoring, clenching, stress and headaches are part of the picture. Be cautious of anyone who offers a single treatment to everyone before establishing what is actually causing your symptoms.

Imaging and the role of CBCT

Not every jaw problem needs a scan, but when symptoms persist, the bite has changed, or structural causes are suspected, 3D cone beam CT (CBCT) imaging helps assess the bony parts of the joint, jaw position and the upper airway. CBCT does not show the disc or soft tissues in detail; if disc problems or inflammation need closer study, an MRI may be requested through the appropriate route. A clinician who explains which imaging is needed, why, and what it can and cannot show is a good sign. At Manhal, CBCT/3D imaging is available on site for cases where it is clinically indicated.

Splints, orthotics and night guards

Splint therapy is a common part of TMJ care, but splints differ. A simple night guard protects teeth from grinding but usually does not change jaw position or how the joint is loaded. A therapeutic orthotic or repositioning splint is designed from records of your bite to reduce strain on the joint and muscles, and may be used as one stage of a wider plan. Dr. Pacha’s approach treats the jaw, bite and airway as one connected system: where narrow arches, a retruded lower jaw or bite imbalance contribute, orthodontic options such as functional splints, jaw expansion (including MARPE), braces or TADs may be considered after full assessment.

When to involve other specialists

TMJ symptoms overlap with other conditions, so a careful clinician knows when to refer. Ear pain may need an ENT opinion, persistent headaches or neurological signs need a medical doctor, and severe joint degeneration, trauma or tumours need oral and maxillofacial or hospital care. Physiotherapy for jaw and neck muscles, stress management and sleep assessment can all help. Seek urgent care if your jaw locks and you cannot close or open your mouth, after a blow to the face, if you have swelling with fever, or if facial pain comes with numbness, weakness or vision change. A TMJ specialist should explain the plan in writing and set realistic expectations.

TMJ care with Dr. Moaiyad Pacha at Manhal

Dr. Moaiyad Pacha is a consultant orthodontist and partner at Manhal Medical Center, with a clinical PhD from Queen Mary University of London, M.Orth RCS (Edinburgh) and F.Orth RCS (England), and more than 15 years’ experience. His work focuses on airway, sleep and TMJ orthodontics, and he practises in London and at Manhal in Dubai (DHA licence 52229421-001, Specialist Orthodontics). A TMJ consultation includes a clinical examination, discussion of symptoms, imaging where indicated and a personalised plan. Because Dr. Pacha divides his time between London and Dubai, please contact the clinic on +971 4 328 4560 or WhatsApp +971 52 987 2411 for his Dubai dates.

Temporomandibular disorders cause pain in the jaw joint and chewing muscles, clicking, and difficulty opening. Most cases improve with conservative, reversible care.

Prepared by the Manhal Medical Center editorial team · Updated: 2026-10-18 · Treating specialist: Dr. Moaiyad Pacha

This page is general information and does not replace a consultation. Suitability, risks and results vary between patients.