Understanding TMJ: Causes, Symptoms, and How Lais Dentistry Can Help

November was TMJ Awareness Month, a perfect time to shed light on a condition that affects millions of people yet often goes undiagnosed—temporomandibular joint disorder (TMJ or TMD). This complex joint connects your jawbone to your skull, allowing you to talk, chew, and yawn comfortably. When it’s not functioning properly, it can cause pain, tension, and other disruptive symptoms that impact your daily life.

What Is TMJ Disorder?
TMJ disorder refers to a range of issues involving the jaw joint and surrounding muscles. These problems can stem from various causes, including teeth grinding or clenching (bruxism), stress, arthritis, injury, or misalignment of the bite. Because the jaw joint is used so frequently, even minor dysfunction can quickly lead to discomfort or pain.

Common Symptoms of TMJ Disorder
TMJ symptoms can vary from person to person, but some of the most common include:

• Jaw pain or tenderness, especially near the ears
• Clicking, popping, or grinding noises when opening or closing the mouth
• Headaches or migraines
• Difficulty chewing or opening the mouth fully
• Facial soreness or tension in the neck and shoulders

These symptoms are often mistaken for other issues, which is why professional evaluation is so important.

Diagnosis and Treatment Options
At Lais Dentistry, we take a personalized approach to TMJ care. Through a comprehensive examination—including checking your bite alignment, jaw movement, and muscle tension—we can identify potential causes and create a treatment plan tailored to your needs.

Treatment options may include:

• Custom nightguards to prevent grinding and clenching during sleep
• Bite adjustments to help realign your jaw
• Therapeutic exercises or relaxation techniques to reduce tension
• Lifestyle guidance on managing stress and promoting better jaw health

By addressing TMJ early, you can prevent long-term damage, reduce discomfort, and restore natural jaw function.

Find Relief This TMJ Awareness Month
If you’ve been living with unexplained headaches, jaw pain, or tightness, you don’t have to suffer in silence. The team at Lais Dentistry is here to help diagnose and treat TMJ disorders with gentle, effective care.

Take the first step toward lasting relief—schedule a consultation with Lais Dentistry today and discover how we can help you move, speak, and smile with comfort again.

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