What Is TMJ Disorder?

In this video, Dr. Robert Ellis explains what TMJ disorder is, what causes it, and the practical steps patients can take to relieve pain and protect their jaw.

TMJ stands for temporomandibular joint, the hinge joint of your jaw. When patients develop TMJ disorder (TMD), they often notice popping, clicking, or pain when opening and closing their mouth. It can be caused by clenching, teeth grinding, chewing hard foods, misalignment (malocclusion), or even habits like chewing ice. As I like to remind patients, your teeth are not tools.

Treatment often begins with addressing habits that strain the joint. We may recommend reducing gum chewing, avoiding hard foods, or limiting activities that overuse the jaw. For more support, we can fit a custom night guard (splint) to relax the joint and prevent clenching during sleep. Keeping a small space between your teeth during the day, since teeth should only touch when you’re chewing food, can also reduce stress on the joint.

By making these changes, many patients experience significant relief from TMJ pain and tension.

If you or someone you love is suffering from jaw pain and wants to know how we can help, contact Dr. Robert Ellis in Rigby, ID, for a free consultation to learn how our life-changing treatments can enhance your smile, relieve pain, and improve your function.

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