Do you consistently wake up with a headache or jaw pain? You may have a condition known as TMJ. TMJ, also known as TMD, refers to conditions affecting the temporomandibular joint, which is the joint that connects your lower jaw to your skull.
When you grind your teeth or clench your jaw at night, it can cause this joint to become poorly aligned. TMJ can also be caused by other conditions, including arthritis and stress leading to several painful symptoms. Some of these symptoms include:
Dentists can treat TMJ in a range of ways, depending on the severity of your condition and the symptoms you are experiencing. Treatment for TMJ can include:
For immediate relief from pain due to TMJ, your dentist may also recommend a variety of jaw exercises to stretch and strengthen jaw muscles.