What Causes Jaw Pain?

Do you suffer from frequent jaw pain? Do you often find yourself clenching or grinding your teeth? You may have TMJ. TMJ, or temporomandibular joint disorders, are often caused by a jaw injury. Teeth grinding, also known as bruxism, is a common condition that can occur at any age and is a common symptom of TMJ. Adults may unconsciously clench or grind their teeth when awake or asleep. Teeth grinding is generally the result of stress and anxiety, and is often paired with a clenched jaw. Those with an abnormal bite or crooked and missing teeth can be more prone to this condition than others. Dr. Leonard Hess and his team will review your symptoms in order to give you a proper diagnosis and treatment. You can receive TMJ treatment in our Monroe, NC office today by calling 704.240.5045.

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Symptoms of TMJ

For many patients, indicators of TMJ may include:

  • Stress
  • Headaches
  • Tooth Sensitivity
  • Jaw Soreness
  • Tooth Pain
  • Grinding Teeth
  • Muscle Soreness
  • Lockjaw
  • Loose Teeth
  • Fractured Teeth

Treating Jaw Pain and TMJ

There are an array of practices and treatments for TMJ:

Muscle relaxation techniques: For mild cases of TMJ, our dental team may work with you to practice muscle relaxation techniques that can reduce tension in the jaw over time.

Mouthguard or splint therapy: A custom mouthguard may be designed to reposition the jaw so it can relax in a natural position and the teeth will make proper contact.

Restorative dental procedures: If teeth have been chipped, cracked, or worn we may recommend tooth bonding, dental crowns, or dental veneers to restore and resurface the teeth and allow them to make contact without stress.

Orthodontics: In cases where malocclusion, or misaligned teeth, are the underlying cause of a bite disorder, orthodontics may be recommended. Invisalign clear aligners are often used to straighten teeth and rebalance the bite.