Jaw Pain, Tension, or Headaches? It Might Be TMD
That sore jaw in the morning. The tension behind your eyes. The dull ache you can’t quite place. It’s easy to assume symptoms like these are caused by stress, but if they’ve become routine, your jaw joint might be to blame. TMD, or temporomandibular joint disorder, affects how your jaw moves and functions. If the joint is misaligned or strained, you might feel pain while chewing, hear clicking or popping when you open your mouth, or wake up with jaw tightness from clenching or grinding.
Keep reading to learn how TMD symptoms show up—and how the right care can bring lasting relief.
Understanding the Source of Discomfort
Your jaw joints are small but powerful, helping you eat, speak, and move your mouth freely. But when something affects how they function—like a misaligned bite, joint inflammation, or nighttime clenching—it can set off a chain reaction.
Some people feel it directly in the jaw. Others experience tension headaches, neck pain, or even earaches without realizing the connection. Over time, TMD can also change how your teeth fit together, leading to worn enamel or interrupted sleep.
Getting to the Root Cause
Because symptoms vary, a proper diagnosis matters. During your visit, we may use advanced tools like the BioPak system to track how your jaw moves and measure muscle activity. These insights help us pinpoint the cause of your discomfort and tailor a treatment plan that fits your needs.
Personalized, Noninvasive Solutions
For many people, relief starts with a custom oral appliance worn at night. These splints gently support your jaw in a more relaxed position, easing strain while you sleep. In some cases, a slight bite adjustment can also help redistribute pressure and reduce pain right away. Our team has decades of experience helping patients find relief from TMD symptoms—often without surgery or invasive treatments.
Feel Like Yourself Again
If your jaw doesn’t feel right or you’ve been living with tension you can’t explain, it’s worth getting checked. Contact our dental office located in Houston, TX to schedule your appointment and take the first step toward lasting comfort.
