What TMJ and TMD Mean
Your TMJ is the temporomandibular joint, the small hinge on each side of your head that connects your lower jaw to your skull. When that joint and the muscles around it are not working smoothly, the result is a TMJ disorder, often shortened to TMD. It can show up as jaw pain or tightness, clicking or popping when you open wide, difficulty chewing, frequent headaches, or sore facial muscles, especially first thing in the morning if you grind at night.
A Careful Look First
We start by understanding what is actually driving your symptoms. That means a careful look at your jaw joint, how your teeth come together (your bite), and how your jaw muscles are working, along with your history of clenching, grinding, or stress. Many cases trace back to nighttime grinding or a bite that puts the joint under strain. Getting the cause right is what lets us choose a treatment that genuinely helps.
Gentle, Conservative Treatment
We always begin with the most conservative options. Your plan may include a custom night guard, a comfortable, custom-fit mouthpiece that cushions your bite and eases clenching and grinding while you sleep. We may also suggest simple jaw exercises and stretches, a small bite adjustment, warm or cool compresses, or easy changes to daily habits like chewing gum or resting your chin on your hand. Many patients feel real relief within a few weeks.
We Stay With You
TMJ care is rarely one and done, so we check in on your progress and adjust the plan as your symptoms settle. If your case turns out to be more involved, we will coordinate with the right specialists nearby on the Sentara RMH medical campus. Our goal is simple, to get you comfortable, chewing normally, and waking without that jaw ache again.