Do you wake up with jaw stiffness, frequent headaches, or hear clicking when you chew or speak? You could be experiencing symptoms of a temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorder. At Dental Comfort Associates in Kearny, NJ, we offer personalized TMJ treatment options to help you find lasting relief from jaw discomfort and improve your quality of life.
What Causes TMJ Disorders?
The temporomandibular joint acts like a sliding hinge, connecting your jawbone to your skull. When something affects the muscles, ligaments, or joint itself, it can result in TMJ disorder (also known as TMD). Common causes include:
- Teeth grinding or clenching (often during sleep)
• Misaligned bite or jaw
• Injury to the jaw or face
• Arthritis affecting the joint
• Stress, which can lead to jaw tension and clenching
TMJ disorders can lead to symptoms such as jaw pain, difficulty chewing, clicking or popping sounds, earaches, and even tension headaches or migraines.
How We Diagnose and Treat TMJ at Dental Comfort Associates
At Dental Comfort Associates, we begin by carefully evaluating your symptoms and jaw function. During your consultation, we’ll examine your bite, listen for joint sounds, and may take X-rays to better understand what’s happening beneath the surface. Once we’ve identified the source of the problem, we’ll develop a treatment plan tailored to your needs.
Treatment may include:
- Custom Night Guards – These prevent teeth grinding and reduce pressure on the jaw.
• Bite Adjustments – Smoothing down high spots on teeth to correct alignment.
• Orthodontic Solutions – In some cases, Invisalign may help realign the bite.
• Jaw Exercises and Physical Therapy – To strengthen and relax the jaw muscles.
• Medication – Anti-inflammatory drugs or muscle relaxants can reduce pain and inflammation.
Our goal is to reduce discomfort, restore proper jaw function, and help you avoid more serious complications.
Lifestyle Changes and Therapies That Help Manage TMJ Symptoms
In addition to professional treatment, small changes in your daily routine can significantly ease TMJ symptoms. Consider the following:
• Avoid chewing gum or hard foods that strain the jaw.
• Practice stress-relief techniques such as deep breathing, yoga, or meditation.
• Apply warm compresses to relax tight jaw muscles.
• Be mindful of your posture—especially if you work at a computer for long hours.
• Try jaw exercises recommended by your dentist or physical therapist.
Consistency with these habits can support long-term TMJ relief and help prevent flare-ups.
Don’t Let TMJ Pain Disrupt Your Life
If you’re dealing with ongoing jaw pain, headaches, or discomfort while chewing, you don’t have to live with it. The team at Dental Comfort Associates is here to help. Call us at (201) 246-1233 to schedule your TMJ evaluation or visit us at 537-A Kearny Avenue, Kearny, New Jersey 07032. We’re committed to providing gentle, effective care that puts your comfort first.