Waking up with a sore jaw, hearing clicking when you chew, or finding yourself clenching your teeth throughout the day are signs you could be dealing with a TMJ-related issue. At Randolph Dental Associates, Dr. Christopher Kaplan can evaluate your jaw pain and help find a solution that brings you relief.
What Are TMJ and TMD?
TMJ stands for temporomandibular joint. These are the hinge joints on either side of your face that connect your lower jaw to your skull. TMD stands for temporomandibular disorder, which refers to problems that affect this joint and the muscles around it. You will often hear the two terms used together, but TMJ is the joint itself, and TMD is the condition.
What Causes Jaw Pain?
TMD can be caused by several things. It could be due to clenching or grinding your teeth, especially at night, which stresses the joint. An uneven bite or arthritis may be the culprit, and jaw injury or high stress can also contribute. Often, more than one factor is involved.
Common TMD Symptoms
Jaw pain treatment in Randolph, NJ, may be appropriate if you experience:
- Jaw pain or tenderness, especially when chewing
- Clicking or popping sounds from the jaw
- Jaw locking open or closed
- Headaches or earaches
- Difficulty opening your mouth fully
- Facial pain or tension around the temples
How We Treat TMJ and TMD
Treatment at Randolph Dental Associates depends on your individual case. Dr. Kaplan may recommend a custom night guard to reduce clenching and grinding. Or, he may suggest adjustments to your bite or certain exercises to relieve jaw muscle tension. Often, a conservative approach is enough to minimize or resolve symptoms without more involved treatment.
If you are experiencing jaw pain in Randolph, NJ, call Randolph Dental Associates to schedule an evaluation with Dr. Kaplan.