Your temporomandibular joints, or TMJs, connect your lower jaw to your skull just in front of your ears. You use them every time you talk, chew, or yawn. When these joints or the muscles around them are strained, the result can be TMJ jaw pain that affects daily life.

Common symptoms

• Pain or tenderness in the jaw, face, or around the ears
• Clicking, popping, or grating sounds when opening the mouth
• Difficulty opening wide or a jaw that feels stuck
• Headaches, especially in the morning
• Pain when chewing
• Worn or sensitive teeth from grinding

What causes TMJ problems?

TMJ disorders often have more than one cause. Common contributors include grinding or clenching your teeth, stress, arthritis in the joint, jaw injury, and an uneven bite. Habits like gum chewing, nail biting, or resting your chin on your hand can add strain.

Relief you can try at home

• Eat softer foods and cut food into small pieces.
• Avoid gum and very chewy foods.
• Apply warm compresses to relax sore muscles.
• Practice keeping your teeth slightly apart and your jaw relaxed during the day.
• Manage stress with exercise, stretching, or relaxation techniques.

How your dentist can help

A dental exam can identify signs of grinding and bite issues that contribute to jaw pain. A custom night guard can reduce the pressure of nighttime clenching and protect your teeth from wear. If your bite is uneven, adjustments or orthodontic treatment may help. For complex cases, we may coordinate with a physician or physical therapist.

When to seek care

Call us if jaw pain lasts more than a couple of weeks, your jaw locks, or you cannot open your mouth comfortably. The National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research has helpful information at nidcr.nih.gov.

TMJ jaw pain FAQs

Can a night guard help TMJ jaw pain?

For many people, yes. A custom night guard reduces the pressure of nighttime clenching, which is a common trigger for TMJ jaw pain.

Will TMJ jaw pain go away on its own?

Mild TMJ jaw pain often improves with rest, soft foods, and stress management. Pain that lasts more than a few weeks should be evaluated.

Jaw pain help near Mishawaka

Michiana Family Dental, 3575 Portage Ave, Suite A, South Bend, IN, helps patients from Mishawaka, South Bend, Granger, and Osceola find relief from jaw pain. Call (574) 347-3333 or request an appointment online to schedule an evaluation.