Millions of people across the country experience persistent facial and neck discomfort along with frequent headaches. Often, this discomfort can be traced back to Temporomandibular Disorder, commonly called TMD.
Your temporomandibular joints (TMJs) connect your lower jaw to your skull, working constantly as you talk, eat, swallow, and yawn. When these joints cause pain or stiffness, it can be frustrating and might limit your jaw’s range of motion.
Request an AppointmentCommon Symptoms of TMD
- Jaw pain or tenderness
- Ear discomfort, including ringing or a feeling of fullness
- Regular headaches or neck pain
- Clicking, popping, or grating sounds when moving your jaw
- Muscle spasms around the jaw
- Changes in the way your upper and lower teeth align
- Jaw locking or difficulty opening your mouth fully
If you recognize any of these signs, be sure to discuss them with your doctor during your next visit. They can help diagnose TMD and tailor a treatment plan just for you to ease your discomfort.
Not all jaw pain means you have TMD
While it’s important to get a thorough checkup from your dentist if you suspect TMD, keep in mind that jaw pain can stem from various causes. If TMD isn’t the issue, there are still plenty of proactive steps to protect your smile and jaw health.
- Keep your lips gently closed without clenching your teeth
- Try to avoid grinding or clenching your teeth
- Limit chewing gum or other non-food items
- Don’t hold the phone between your ear and shoulder—use a headset or hold it properly
- Chew your food evenly on both sides of your mouth
- Avoid resting your chin on your hand
- Maintain good posture by keeping your head up, back straight, and shoulders relaxed
Many patients tell us they develop TMD even without braces. Symptoms often come and go, regardless of orthodontic history. If you’re experiencing these symptoms and want to explore treatment options, please contact Align Orthodontics Lexington in Lexington, MA for a consultation.
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