The only way fillings or other restorations like crowns can affect TMJ is if the bite, or occlusion, isn't checked at completion. If the bite is off patients will constantly pound on that tooth or teeth causing discomfort ranging from irritation to toothaches and jaw pain. I find that TMJ is best treated with nightguards along with anti inflammatory drugs like Anaprox or Motrin. In severe cases a short regimen of muscle relaxants may be indicated. Generally surgery isn't as common as it used to be as results aren't consistently good, and can even make things worse; surgery is generally considered in severe cases where the jaw locks and jaw function is impaired to the point where quality of life becomes an issue. I tend to go through periods of stress during which I clench my teeth at night, leading to swelling of my jaw muscles and pain in the morning; in my case a night guard along with Motrin/Advil/Aleve help a lot.

Scott M. Meltzer