Jaw Pain Is Not Normal
If discomfort in your jaw is part of your daily routine, it might feel normal, but it is not. Chronic jaw tension, clicking, headaches, or trouble chewing could be signs of a condition called TMD, or Temporomandibular Disorder. TMD refers to issues with the temporomandibular joints, which connect your jaw to your skull. These joints are responsible for everything from speaking and chewing to yawning. When they are inflamed or misaligned, the result is pain and dysfunction.
- Headaches
- Earaches or tenderness near the ear
- Jaw or facial pain
- Muscle tension in the neck, shoulders or upper back
- Ringing in the ears
- Clicking or grinding in the jaw
- Difficulty chewing, yawning or opening your mouth
Common Signs of TMD
Diagnosis and Treatment
Comprehensive Evaluation
The first step in treatment is an in depth clinical exam. We check your jaw, bite, joints and facial muscles for signs of tenderness, swelling or irregular motion. We may also listen for clicking or grinding while you open and close your mouth. If TMD is diagnosed, the next step is to build a personalized treatment plan.
Custom Bite Splints
One of the most effective non invasive treatments is a custom made bite splint. This plastic appliance fits over your teeth and works by relieving pressure on your jaw, preventing clenching and grinding, and guiding your bite into a more comfortable position. Patients often find significant relief wearing a splint either during the day or while sleeping.
Alternative Solutions
If your TMD is caused by an uneven bite or missing teeth, we may recommend orthodontics or restorative dental work. In some cases, selective reshaping of individual teeth can help evenly distribute bite pressure and reduce stress on the joints.
Contact us today
to schedule an initial consultation & exam.
Your consultation will include an examination of everything from your teeth, gums and soft tissues to the shape and condition of your bite. Generally, we want to see how your whole mouth looks and functions. Before we plan your treatment we want to know everything about the health and aesthetic of your smile, and most importantly, what you want to achieve so we can help you get there.
Frequently Asked Questions
TMJ refers to the temporomandibular joint. TMD is the name given to a group of disorders affecting that joint, often resulting in pain, stiffness, or restricted movement in the jaw.
There is no single cause of TMD. It can result from injury, arthritis, grinding your teeth, bite misalignment, or chronic stress. Habits like chewing on pens, nail biting, or using poorly fitted dentures can also contribute.
TMD is a known trigger for tension headaches, especially those that start near the temples or radiate from the jaw. However, an exam is needed to determine the cause of your symptoms.
Surgery is almost never the first option. Most TMD cases respond well to non invasive therapy such as bite splints, physical therapy, or minor dental adjustments. If those options do not work and your symptoms are severe, surgery may be considered as a last resort.
Yes, stress is a major contributing factor. People who are stressed often clench their jaws or grind their teeth without realizing it, which places extra strain on the joints and surrounding muscles.
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