TMJ

Commonly referred to as TMJ, pain of the jaw joint(s) and muscle(s) affects millions of people in our country. What most patients don’t know is that the relationship between the upper and lower teeth (the bite) is what determines the position of our jaw joints. An incorrect bite does not allow proper function among the varying groups of muscles which control our lower jaw movements. With time, these muscle groups and the jaw joints become overworked in trying to maintain the forced position which has been dictated by an inadequate bite. If the bite is not corrected, muscles and joints remain strained for lengthy periods of time. The resulting poor circulation/blood flow and oxygen deprivation may lead to pain. Common symptoms of TMJ/ TMD include but are not limited to:

• Headaches and/or Migraines

• Jaw pain or stiffness

• Tired jaw during chewing

• Tooth pain or sensitivity

• Tooth pain which moves around the mouth

• Grinding of teeth

• Tired jaw during chewing

• Tooth pain or sensitivity

• Tooth pain which moves around the mouth Grinding of teeth

• Ear pain

• Feeling of fullness in the ear Loose teeth

• Clicking/crackling jaw noises Neck pain

• Shoulder pain

• Worn down teeth

• Forward head posturing