The temperomandibular joint(TMJ ) is the joint that allows us to move our jaws. It is located just in front of the ears. It is held on to your face with a sling of muscles that attach to your cheekbone and extend to below your jaw. Just like any joint in the body it can become achy and sore. In the case of the TMJ it can be related to headaches, jaw pain, neck pain, tooth wear, and fractures.
What aggravates this condition? Grinding and clenching at night or during the day, an uneven bite, chewing hard foods and trauma can all exacerbate this condition.
For may people a nightguard can make an enormous difference by giving this joint a rest at night. The nightguard minimizes the occurrence of morning headaches and soreness and protects your teeth and dentistry from wear. Many patients experience full relief from the symptoms of TMJ by adding a nightguard to their self-care routine.