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Find Relief from TMJ Disorder: What You Need to Know

Have you ever noticed a clicking or popping sound when you open your mouth? Maybe you experience jaw pain, stiffness, or even headaches that seem to come from nowhere. If so, you could be dealing with Temporomandibular Joint (TMJ) Disorder—a common but often overlooked condition that affects the function of your jaw.

At High Park Dental Care, we frequently treat patients who suffer from TMJ-related discomfort. Understanding the causes and symptoms of this condition can help you take the right steps toward relief.

What Is TMJ Disorder?

The temporomandibular joint (TMJ) connects your jawbone to your skull, allowing you to chew, speak, and move your mouth smoothly. When this joint becomes strained, inflamed, or misaligned, it can lead to TMJ disorder (TMD)—a condition that affects millions of people.

Common Symptoms of TMJ Disorder

While jaw clicking is one of the most noticeable signs of TMD, there are several other symptoms to watch for, including:

• Jaw pain or tenderness – especially around the ears or jawline.
• Difficulty chewing – discomfort when eating or biting down.
• Frequent headaches or migraines – often mistaken for tension headaches.
• Earaches or ringing in the ears (tinnitus) – linked to jaw dysfunction.
• Locking of the jaw – trouble opening or closing your mouth fully.
• Neck and shoulder pain – caused by muscle tension.

If you’re experiencing any of these symptoms, it’s important to see our dental team for an evaluation. Ignoring TMJ disorder can lead to chronic pain, worn-down teeth, and difficulty eating or speaking.

What Causes TMJ Disorder?

TMD can develop from several factors, including:

• Teeth grinding (bruxism): Excessive clenching and grinding put stress on the jaw joint.
• Jaw misalignment: Uneven bites can strain the TMJ.
• Arthritis: Inflammation in the joint can lead to pain and restricted movement.
• Stress and tension: Holding tension in your jaw can worsen symptoms.
• Injury or trauma: A blow to the jaw can disrupt normal function.

How Is TMJ Disorder Treated?

At High Park Dental Care, we offer customized TMJ treatments to help relieve your discomfort, including:

• Nightguards & bite splints – Protect against teeth grinding and reduce jaw strain.
• Jaw exercises & relaxation techniques – Strengthen and stretch the muscles.
• Orthodontic treatments – Address misalignment that contributes to TMJ issues.
• BOTOX® for TMJ pain – Relax jaw muscles and reduce tension.
• Lifestyle adjustments – Reducing stress, avoiding hard foods, and improving posture.

The right treatment plan depends on your specific symptoms and needs, which is why a professional evaluation is essential.

Find Relief Today!

If you’re struggling with jaw clicking, pain, or discomfort, don’t wait for the problem to get worse. At High Park Dental Care, our dental team can help diagnose and treat TMJ disorder to restore your comfort and quality of life.

Call us at (416) 766-6383, or schedule online now.