TMJ & TMD Treatment To Relieve Jaw Pain

If you experience frequent jaw discomfort, headaches, or facial pain, you may be suffering from Temporomandibular Disorder (TMD), a condition that affects the temporomandibular joints (TMJ), which connect your lower jaw to your skull. These joints are essential for everyday functions like speaking, chewing, and yawning. When they aren’t working properly, it can affect more than just your mouth; it can impact your entire quality of life.

Dr. Sebastian Rodríguez offers expert evaluation and treatment options to help relieve TMD symptoms and support better jaw health at Beam Orthodontics.

What Are the Symptoms of TMD?

TMD symptoms can vary from person to person and may range from mild discomfort to severe, chronic pain. Common signs include:

• Jaw pain or soreness

• Clicking, popping, or grinding sounds when opening or closing the mouth

• Headaches, especially around the temples

• Neck aches or stiffness

• Pain or pressure in or around the ears

• Swelling on one or both sides of the face

• Muscle spasms in the jaw area

• Difficulty or pain when chewing

• Locked jaw or limited jaw movement

• A noticeable shift in how your upper and lower teeth fit together

What Causes TMJ Disorders?

The TMJ is a complex joint that allows both hinge-like and sliding movements. Normally, this joint functions smoothly due to protective cartilage and a small shock-absorbing disk between the bones. However, several factors can interfere with this function:

• Misalignment or displacement of the joint disk

• Arthritis or joint degeneration that wears down the cartilage

• Jaw injuries or trauma, such as a blow to the face

• Clenching or grinding your teeth (bruxism)

• Stress-related tension in facial muscles

Over time, these issues can lead to inflammation, discomfort, and reduced range of motion.

Tips to Prevent TMJ/TMD Symptoms

While some causes of TMD are out of your control, certain habits can help reduce your risk and protect your jaw health:

• Keep your face relaxed; lips together, teeth slightly apart

• Avoid excessive gum chewing or nail biting

• Don’t cradle the phone between your ear and shoulder — use a headset

• Chew evenly on both sides of your mouth

• Avoid resting your chin on your hand

• Maintain good posture with your head aligned and shoulders back

• Use a nightguard if you grind your teeth while sleeping

Practicing these habits can reduce strain on your jaw joints and help prevent flare-ups.

Find Relief from Jaw Pain

If you’re experiencing any symptoms of TMJ or TMD, don’t ignore them. These issues can worsen over time if left untreated. Dr. Rodriguez offers comprehensive evaluations and non-invasive treatment options tailored to your unique needs.

Contact our office today to schedule a consultation and take the first step toward lasting relief and improved oral health.