Eye twitching may seem like a small annoyance, but for many Detroit patients, it’s a sign of something deeper happening in the jaw and facial muscles. Muscle spasms can range from brief twitches to hours-long contractions. When a muscle becomes spastic, it may feel tighter than usual, visibly distort the eyelid, or create repetitive twitching. At our Detroit TMJ dental practice, I often see patients whose orbicularis muscles—the muscles around the eye—become overactive due to an underlying TMJ disorder.
Why Eye Twitching Happens
Eyelid and eyebrow twitching can develop for many reasons, including stress, caffeine, lack of sleep, certain medications, eyestrain from screens, and magnesium deficiency. Sometimes the cause is neurological, hormonal, or behavioral. Twitching can also be linked to conditions such as Tourette’s syndrome, MS, Parkinson’s disease, Bell’s palsy, or a sleep disorder.
Even when painless, ongoing spasms can lead to headaches, nausea, and discomfort around the eye. In some cases, the twitching becomes more pronounced, lasting for hours or returning repeatedly throughout the day.
When Twitching Is a Neurological Condition
Blepharospasm—also known as benign essential blepharospasm—is a neurological condition that causes involuntary eyelid contractions. As a form of dystonia, it leads to abnormal muscle activity and may spread to the surrounding facial muscles. It is also more common in women than men.
Botox injections may offer temporary relief for some people, although the effects diminish over time. In extreme cases, surgery may be recommended, but this is typically considered only when all other treatments fail.
TMJ Disorders as an Underlying Cause
Many Detroit patients are surprised to learn that persistent eye twitching may actually stem from an imbalanced or overworked jaw joint. TMJ disorders create muscle tension and inflammation that radiate into the face, head, and around the eyes. When the jaw cannot find a comfortable resting position, the surrounding muscles—including those responsible for eyelid control—begin to spasm.
In these cases, treating TMJ directly is the key to reducing the twitching.
TMJ Treatment Options
When TMJ dysfunction is contributing to eye twitching or facial muscle spasms, treatment focuses on restoring balance to the jaw and helping the surrounding muscles relax. Several effective options can reduce strain, improve alignment, and provide lasting relief.
Orthotics for Jaw Stabilization
A custom orthotic is often one of the most effective ways to reduce TMJ-related muscle strain and eye twitching. Although it looks similar to a mouthguard, it’s designed to guide your jaw into a healthier, more stable resting position. By supporting the bite and relieving pressure on overworked muscles, the orthotic helps irritated tissues—including those around the eyes—relax. Most patients begin by wearing it full-time, removing it only for meals and cleaning, and gradually transition to nighttime or occasional use as symptoms improve.
TENS Therapy for Muscle Relaxation
TENS therapy is another essential part of TMJ care in Detroit. This gentle electrical stimulation helps loosen tight facial muscles, reduce inflammation, and improve blood flow. It’s often combined with heat therapy, massage around the jaw joint, and guided exercises. Together, these methods retrain the jaw and facial muscles to function more comfortably, reducing spasms that may contribute to eyelid or eyebrow twitching.
Phase II Treatment for Long-Term Stability
For some patients, long-term relief requires phase II TMJ treatment once the jaw has stabilized. This step focuses on creating lasting balance between the bite, joints, and muscles. It may involve restorative dentistry such as reshaping worn teeth, rebuilding damaged areas, or placing crowns, bridges, or implants. The goal is to support the alignment achieved in phase I, maintain comfort, and prevent symptoms—including muscle twitching—from returning.
Take the First Step Toward Relief
Eye twitching may seem minor, but when it’s linked to TMJ dysfunction, it’s a signal that your jaw and facial muscles are under strain. The right care can relax those muscles, rebalance the jaw, and ease the symptoms that disrupt your comfort.
If you’re dealing with ongoing twitching or facial tension, Michigan Head & Neck Institute can help. A focused TMJ evaluation allows us to pinpoint whether your bite, muscles, or joint are contributing to the problem so we can recommend the most effective treatment.
Don’t wait for symptoms to worsen. Call us at (586) 573-0438 to schedule your evaluation and start feeling better.
