Living with TMJ Pain? You're Not Alone and Relief Is Possible!
Posted on (not posted yet) by Smile More Spokane Family Dentistry
November is TMJ Awareness Month, and if you’re among the many people living with daily jaw pain, headaches, or facial discomfort, we want you to know that there’s hope. At Smile More - Spokane Family Dentistry, we understand TMJ pain because we’ve experienced it firsthand.
What Is TMJ/TMD, and Why Does It Hurt So Much?
TMJ pain comes from issues with the temporomandibular joint (TMJ), which is the hinge connecting your jawbone to your skull. When it’s overused or stressed, you may experience what’s known as Temporomandibular Joint Dysfunction (TMD). This isn’t just about a sore jaw; it can mean ongoing headaches, trouble chewing, earaches, and stiffness. For some, even yawning can bring intense pain.
Some of the most common symptoms of TMD include:
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Jaw pain or tenderness
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Stiffness or even locking of the jaw
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Headaches, often linked to jaw tension
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Pain in the face, ears, or neck
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Jaw clicking or popping when opening and closing your mouth
A Personal Look at TMJ Pain
Our own Dr. Natasha Wilhelm and many members of our team have dealt with the constant discomfort that comes from TMD. We know the frustration of trying different remedies—night guards, physical therapy, or medications—that don’t always give long-lasting relief. For us, the turning point came with neurotoxin injections, a treatment that helps relax the overactive jaw muscles responsible for clenching and pain. It’s a solution we truly believe in because we’ve felt the difference it makes.
TMJ Awareness and Hope for Pain Relief
As we reflect on TMJ Awareness Month, we hope to remind our patients that there are ways to manage TMD and find relief. Neurotoxin injections are one option that has brought peace of mind and a pain-free lifestyle to many people. The treatment relaxes those hard-working jaw muscles, giving them a chance to heal and helping you experience life without constant discomfort. We’ve been there, and we’re ready to help you find relief, too.
Smile More Spokane Family Dentistry, 9671 North Nevada St. ste. 200, Spokane, WA 99218-1146 • (509) 505-6303 • spokanefamilydentistry.com • 12/12/2024 • Associated Words: dentist Spokane WA •