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Temporomandibular Joint (Jaw Joint)

This is also known as the jaw joint, which allows out lower jaw to move. This is found in front of your ear where the bones of your skull and lower jaw meet, this allows us to open and close our mouth. Sometimes we can find this joint becomes a little tender and sore.

This can be caused by...
  • Stress/anxiety
  • A misaligned bite
  • Clenching/grinding
  • Nail biting
  • Bone/cartilage loss
These problems are quite common and can last up to a few months and sometimes it can go away on it's own. 

Symptoms of TMJ: 
  • Headaches - Often around the temples
  • Pain around the ears
  • Upper/lower jaw pain
  • Pain in the neck
  • Noises from the joint - clicking/cracking/crunching/popping
How to improve symptoms of TMJ:
  • Have a soft diet, no toffees or chewing gum.
  • Try not to bite your nails
  • A mouth guard may be suitable to prevent grinding during the night
  • Don't hold anything in between your teeth
  • Identify and stop habits such as clenching or grinding
  • Apply heat to the area to relax the muscles
  • Rest the joint as much as possible 
  • Use painkillers or an anti-inflammatory 
  • Relaxation techniques such as yoga