When Clicking, Clenching, and Headaches Mean It’s Time to See a Pro
We all carry stress differently—some in the shoulders, some in the gut, and others… in the jaw. If you’ve been waking up with headaches, noticing a clicking sound when you chew, or feeling tension around your temples, you might be wondering: Is this just stress, or something more serious?
At Dental Comfort Associates in Kearny, NJ, we’re here to help you decode the signs of TMJ disorder and offer real, lasting relief.
🦷 What Is TMJ Disorder?
TMJ stands for temporomandibular joint, the hinge that connects your jaw to your skull. You have one on each side of your head, and it’s responsible for opening and closing your mouth, chewing, speaking, and yawning.
TMJ disorder (TMD) occurs when something isn’t working quite right—whether due to stress, injury, arthritis, or jaw misalignment. And it’s more common than you might think.
🤔 Signs It’s More Than Just Stress
While occasional jaw tightness can be due to stress or teeth grinding, persistent symptoms could point to TMJ disorder:
- Jaw pain or tenderness
- Clicking, popping, or grinding sounds when opening/closing the mouth
- Frequent headaches or migraines
- Facial pain or pressure near the ears
- Difficulty chewing or a sudden change in your bite
- Locking of the jaw (open or closed position)
- Worn-down teeth or increased tooth sensitivity
If these signs sound familiar, it’s time to get evaluated.
💡 What Causes TMJ Disorder?
Some common causes include:
- Chronic teeth grinding (bruxism)
- Stress-induced clenching of the jaw
- Arthritis in the jaw joint
- Misaligned bite or crooked teeth
- Injury to the face or jaw
- Hormonal influences (more common in women)
💆♀️ Modern TMJ Treatments That Work
You don’t have to live with the discomfort. TMJ treatment today is more effective—and more comfortable—than ever:
✅ Custom Night Guards – Protect your teeth from grinding and give your jaw a break while you sleep
✅ TMJ Splints – Adjust your bite and help reposition the jaw for long-term relief
✅ Physical Therapy or Jaw Exercises – Improve mobility and reduce muscle tension
✅ Bite Adjustments – Small refinements in your bite can make a big difference
✅ Botox® for TMJ – In some cases, small doses of Botox can relax overactive jaw muscles
✅ Stress Management Techniques – Counseling or relaxation therapies can reduce clenching triggers
📞 Let’s Get to the Root of Your Jaw Pain
If your jaw has been talking to you lately—with clicks, pain, or pressure—it’s time to listen. TMJ disorder is treatable, and the sooner you get answers, the better you’ll feel.
Contact Dental Comfort Associates today for a personalized TMJ evaluation and treatment plan:
📍 837 Kearny Ave, Kearny, NJ
📞 (201) 998-1400
🌐 www.dentalcomfortassociates.com
Relief is closer than you think.