When you wake up in the morning, the last thing you want to greet you is discomfort, regardless of where it comes from. But did you know that waking up with a sore jaw can actually be a sign of an underlying case of temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorder? When you notice pain, clicking, or locking in your jaw, don’t simply try to walk it off. Call our dental office today to schedule an appointment with Dr. Tijerina, who has the expertise to pinpoint the cause and prescribe treatment!

What is TMJ Disorder?

When you have a bite that is uneven or your jaw has become injured in some way, it can affect the nuanced movements of your jaw’s joints. These joints are responsible for the way your jaw moves when you chew, yawn, speak and do other basic functions. If these joints experience long-term stress that disproportionately affects them relative to the rest of the mouth, it can lead to chronic discomfort in the jaw, face, neck and upper back. It can also lead to chronic migraines, earaches and a generally lower quality of life.

How Can TMJ Disorder Be Treated?

To start, Dr. Tijerina will perform a detailed and comprehensive diagnostic process so he can confirm exactly which treatment would most effectively relieve your TMJ symptoms. This is done using the Tekscan (or T-Scan) device to measure your current bite. This will then be used to determine if oral splints or occlusal adjustment would suit your needs best. Oral splints are custom appliances that are typically worn while you sleep and work to reduce pressure and stress on your jaw joints. Occlusal adjustments involve modifications to your existing tooth enamel or current dental restorations, both which can affect your bite.