Temporomandibular Joint Disorder (TMJ) occurs when the joints connecting your jaw to your skull become strained, misaligned, or otherwise impaired, leading to pain, stiffness, and difficulty moving your jaw. These joints are essential for everyday actions like chewing, speaking, and yawning. When they aren’t functioning properly, the resulting symptoms can impact not only your oral health but also your comfort and overall quality of life.
Individuals experiencing TMJ disorder may notice the following symptoms:
- Jaw pain or tenderness
- Clicking, popping, or grinding sounds when opening or closing the mouth
- Difficulty in chewing or biting
- Locking of the jaw
- Ear pain or ringing (tinnitus)
- Headaches or facial pain
