If you frequently experience jaw pain, headaches, or popping sounds when you chew, you might be dealing with a condition known as TMJ dysfunction (also called TMD).
At Fairlington Dental in Arlington, VA, we help patients identify and treat this often-overlooked issue using advanced, whole-body techniques. But how do you know if TMJ dysfunction is affecting you?
What Is TMJ Dysfunction?
TMJ stands for the temporomandibular joint—the hinge that connects your jaw to your skull. This joint allows you to chew, speak, and yawn. When something goes wrong with its function, it can cause a wide range of painful and frustrating symptoms.
Common Symptoms of TMJ Dysfunction
1. Jaw Pain or Tenderness
Discomfort when chewing or opening your mouth is a classic sign of TMD.
2. Clicking, Popping, or Grinding Noises
You may hear or feel these sensations in your jaw when you eat or speak.
3. Frequent Headaches or Migraines
Tension from a misaligned jaw can radiate upward, resulting in chronic headaches.
4. Earaches or Pressure
Because the jaw joint is close to the ear, many patients experience pain, pressure, or ringing (tinnitus).
5. Difficulty Opening or Closing the Mouth
Your jaw may feel stuck, lock in place, or have a limited range of motion.
6. Neck and Shoulder Pain
Muscle strain from jaw misalignment often affects the neck, shoulders, and even posture.
Causes of TMJ Dysfunction
- Teeth grinding (bruxism)
- Poor bite alignment
- Stress and muscle tension
- Jaw injury or arthritis
- Sleep-disordered breathing or airway issues
How Fairlington Dental Approaches TMJ Care
Our integrative TMJ treatment includes:
Comprehensive Diagnostics
We use advanced imaging and bite analysis to understand the source of your pain.
Custom Oral Appliances
We create night guards or splints that support proper jaw alignment and reduce muscle tension.
Airway Evaluation
Since many TMJ issues are linked to breathing problems during sleep, we assess your airway for potential obstruction.
Myofunctional Therapy
We may recommend exercises to retrain oral and facial muscles for better function.
Collaborative, Holistic Care
We coordinate with sleep specialists, physical therapists, and chiropractors when needed to treat the whole patient, not just the symptoms.
Why TMJ Treatment Matters
Ignoring TMJ symptoms can lead to worsening pain, tooth damage, poor sleep, and even mental health effects. Early diagnosis and intervention are key.
At Fairlington Dental, we help you get to the root of your TMJ dysfunction so you can finally find lasting relief.
Find Relief from TMJ Pain in Arlington
Don’t let jaw pain or chronic headaches interfere with your quality of life. Contact Fairlington Dental today to schedule a consultation and learn more about our TMJ-focused care.
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