Do you wake up with a stiff jaw, frequent headaches, or an annoying clicking sound when you chew? You might think it’s just stress—but these symptoms could be a sign of TMJ disorder. Understanding the difference is the first step toward relief.
What is TMJ?
The temporomandibular joint (TMJ) connects your jaw to your skull and acts like a sliding hinge. When this joint or the surrounding muscles aren’t working properly, it can cause discomfort, pain, and even affect your daily life.
Common Symptoms of TMJ
- Jaw pain or tenderness
- Clicking, popping, or grinding sounds when opening or closing your mouth
- Difficulty chewing or biting
- Headaches or earaches without another clear cause
- Facial pain or stiffness
If you notice these symptoms more than occasionally, it’s time to consider TMJ as a potential cause.
Triggers That Can Make TMJ Worse
- Stress or teeth grinding (bruxism)
- Misaligned bite or jaw structure
- Trauma to the jaw
- Overuse from excessive chewing (gum, tough foods)
Identifying triggers can help you avoid habits that aggravate TMJ and take steps toward relief.
When to See a Dentist
If jaw pain persists for more than a few days, interferes with your eating, or causes frequent headaches, it’s time to schedule an evaluation. A dentist can assess your bite, jaw alignment, and muscle function, then recommend solutions such as:
- Custom night guards to prevent teeth grinding
- Physical therapy or jaw exercises
- Stress management techniques
- Dental corrections for bite alignment
Early intervention can prevent worsening symptoms and improve your quality of life.
Relief Starts Here
At Dental Comfort Associates in Kearny, NJ, we specialize in TMJ treatment and pain management. Our team evaluates your unique symptoms and crafts a personalized plan to restore comfort and function.
📞 Call us today at (201) 246-1233 to schedule your TMJ consultation.
Office Address:
537-A Kearny Avenue
Kearny, New Jersey 07032
Don’t let jaw pain control your day—get the care you need and bite back at discomfort!