There are several factors that can cause the TMJ to function improperly—and cause pain and discomfort as a result. The following are some of the most common signs of an issue with the TMJ, so don’t ignore them!

Headaches

Headaches can result from muscle tension from an improperly functioning TMJ [1]. The muscles and connective tissue that allow the TMJ to function can be strained when the joint is out of alignment, leading to tension.

This tension can then spread throughout the head, neck, and even the shoulders and upper back. People who experience headaches regularly with no known cause might consider visiting their dentist for an assessment of their TMJ to determine if this jaw joint could be at the root of the issue!

Jaw Popping or Clicking

Another common sign of a problem with the TMJ that often goes ignored are odd sounds that happen when chewing, speaking, or yawning. For some, these sounds will only be audible to the person experiencing them, while for others, these noises are obvious even to other people. The noises can vary but could include clicking, grinding, popping, or even crunching sounds [2].

If you’re experiencing any of these sounds when you move your jaw in correlation with the other signs discussed here, you could have a TMJ disorder!

Ear Trouble

Many people don’t realize that a problem with the ears could actually point to a problem with your temporomandibular joint. If you frequently experience ear pain or aching around the ear, don’t overlook the TMJ as a potential cause [3].

Some people who have a TMJ disorder also experience tinnitus, which is a ringing or buzzing noise in the ears only audible to the experiencer. Because the temporomandibular joint is so close to the ears, it’s important not to rule out its role in ear discomfort or problems.

Discomfort When Chewing or Speaking

Another common sign of TMJ disorders is pain or discomfort when the jaw is in motion, such as when chewing or speaking [4]. However, for some people, this pain is chronic and may persist even when the jaw is at rest.

You may also experience sore facial muscles, and the discomfort may be intermittent or persistent. For many patients with TMJ issues, this discomfort impacts their daily life and will require some form of treatment to remedy.

Are You Experiencing Signs of TMJ Disorder?

TMJ disorders are treatable! By following up with your experienced dentist, you can uncover the root cause of your TMJ discomfort. Your dentist can help you find the right treatment to alleviate your discomfort, so don’t hesitate to ask your dentist about your jaw pain!

Sources:
1. https://health.clevelandclinic.org/your-jaw-may-be-to-blame-for-your-migraine-
headaches/
2. https://www.cda-
3. https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/tmj/symptoms-causes/syc-20350941
4. https://www.cedars-sinai.org/health-library/diseases-and-

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An estimated 10 million people experience some type of problem with their TMJ, whether it’s
due to an improper bite, arthritis, or even stress and teeth grinding. If you’re looking for TMJ
relief, you may be able to try the following dentist recommended exercises to treat your TMJ
disorder.

Resisted Opening Exercise

Resisted opening exercises can help strengthen your jaw muscles and provide some relief for
TMJ tension. To perform a resisted opening exercise, place your thumb or thumbs underneath
your chin. Push your thumbs against your chin gently while opening your mouth. You can keep
your mouth open for about three seconds before closing it and repeat.

Relaxation Exercise

Relaxation exercises can help to ease sore jaw muscles associated with a TMJ disorder. To try a
relaxation exercise, place your tongue on the top of your mouth behind your front teeth. Allow
your jaw to open, keeping your muscles relaxed. You can also slowly close your mouth, keeping
your tongue in the same position.

Mild Resisted Opening Exercises

During mild resisted opening exercises, you can again place your tongue on the roof of your
mouth as in the previous exercise. Next, put one finger where your TMJ is—this will be just in
front of your ear. Put another finger from your opposite hand on your chin. Apply gentle
pressure on both fingers on your TMJ and chin.

Next, allow your lower jaw to open about halfway and close. For full opening, perform the same
process, except allow your jaw to completely open and then close. You should feel some
resistance here, but not pain. If the exercise is painful, do not continue.

Stress Management

Since stress is a major factor in many TMJ disorders, it may benefit you to try some relaxation
techniques in your daily life to cope with stress. Relaxation processes will be different for
everyone, but many people find that breathing techniques, meditation, yoga, or other forms of
exercise can help them manage their stress.

Following Up with Your Dentist

There are other ways to manage and treat your TMJ pain. It’s essential to follow up with your dentist. If any of these exercises are painful, do not continue them. Allowing your dentist to
examine your TMJ and determine the cause can help you uncover exercises and treatment
techniques that will work for you.

TMJ disorders are absolutely treatable and can be managed. For some people, determining the
cause of their TMJ disorder can help implement a successful treatment process to make their
pain go away permanently. For others, managing their stress and triggers for TMJ pain can help
effectively manage the disorder.

Your dentist is the first step to alleviating discomfort in your TMJ. By scheduling a simple exam,
you can determine if you suffer from a TMJ disorder and what treatments are available to help
you feel better today!

The post Dentist Recommended Exercises to Treat TMJ appeared first on Your Dental Health Resource.

Temporomandibular Joint (TMJ) Disorders

You’ve likely heard of TMJ disorders, where a misalignment, trauma, or incorrect bite could result in jaw pain and odd sounds. People often experience clicking or popping noises when opening and closing their mouth in addition to headaches, jaw tightness, and even teeth grinding as a result of these conditions.

These disorders can be very uncomfortable, but fortunately, your dentist may be able to help! Talk to your dentist about any jaw pain including any tension or tightness that you’re experiencing. He or she can perform a simple jaw exam to determine if your bite or your temporomandibular joint could be the problem.

Stress or Anxiety

Many people are taught to keep their emotions to themselves and deal with feelings such as anxiety or stress inwardly. This can lead to tension throughout the body, and you may experience this tension in your jaw muscles. When you’re under pressure or feeling stressed out, you may tighten your jaw in response to these stressors, leading to jaw tightness and tension.

There are other ways to handle stress and anxiety rather than placing the pressure on your jaw or your muscles. This type of tension could lead to dull headaches or even intense migraines and can worsen your existing stress. Talk to your doctor or your dentist about healthy habits for handling stress rather than taking that tension in your jaw!

Bruxism (Teeth Grinding)

Do you know if you grind your teeth? Teeth grinding is a common habit that many people aren’t aware they have. Whether you grind your teeth in times of stress or even while sleeping, this could be the sneaky culprit behind your jaw tightness and tension. Bruxism is the technical name for teeth grinding, and bruxism can be extremely damaging to your teeth and put immense pressure on your jaw.

If you grind your teeth at night, you may wake up with jaw pain, a dull headache, or even sore teeth and gums. Since bruxism puts so much pressure on your teeth, this can lead to chips and fractures, enamel erosion, and inflammation, all of which can increase your risk for tooth loss over time. Talk to your dentist about bruxism—he or she can perform an exam and determine if you’re exhibiting signs of teeth grinding that can benefit from treatment.

You don’t have to live with jaw tightness and tension. These symptoms often point to a larger problem that can easily be addressed with your dentist. No one should have to live with pain, so talk to your dentist about your jaw aches and tension to see what’s causing it. There is treatment for bruxism, stress, and TMJ disorders!

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