Do you have jaw tenderness or pain when you open your mouth, chew, or yawn? Is chewing difficult or do you experience discomfort in your jaw, in and around your ear, or on your face when you eat? Do you ever hear clicking or popping when you open and close your mouth? Does your jaw lock on occasion? If any of these things are true for you, you may have TMJ.

TMJ refers to the temporomandibular joint, which acts as a hinge between the bottom of your skull and your jaw. Pain originating in the joint can be caused by:

• Erosion or misalignment of the disc between the bones
• Damage to the cartilage as a result of arthritis
• Improper bite
• Stress or teeth grinding
• Poor posture
• Lack of sleep
• Poor diet

If you believe you have TMJ, contact your medical professional or discuss your concerns with your dentist. You may be advised to avoid overuse of your jaw muscles, learn specific stretches and massage techniques, or apply heat or ice to your jaw.

Your doctor may also recommend utilizing stress reduction techniques, limiting particular habits, such as gum chewing, jaw clenching, and sleep avoidance.

If you suspect you have TMJ, contact our office for a free consultation. Our staff is happy to help you look and feel your best.