Care for the jaw joints.

Temporomandibular joint disorder (TMD) affects the TMJ, the joints that connect the lower jaw to the skull and let the jaw bite, chew, and talk. When the muscles and tissues around the joint are stressed, movement can be limited and painful.

The practice notes clenching, gum chewing, frequent snacking, teeth grinding during sleep, a blow to the jaw, and some sleeping positions as things that can stress the joint.

What patients notice

• A pop or click when the lower jaw moves
• A headache on waking, tied to grinding

Care starts with everyday changes: less gum, no opening bottles with teeth, and a look at how you sleep. Massage of the joint and nearby muscles is part of what the practice describes.