TMJ flare-ups present a range of symptoms, including jaw pain or tenderness that intensifies with movement, chewing, or speaking. Eating might become challenging, causing discomfort when attempting to open the mouth fully or chew food. Clicking, popping, or grating sensations during jaw movement are common due to irregular joint motion. Severe cases may involve temporary locking of the jaw in an open or closed position. Headaches, often felt around the temples or behind the eyes, can accompany TMJ flares. Additionally, discomfort in the ears, such as pain, ringing, or a sense of fullness, might occur due to the proximity of the TMJ to the ear.