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A Green Apple Dental dentist consulting with a patient about jaw pain

Jaw Pain & Teeth Grinding (TMJ)

Jaw pain, clicking, morning headaches and worn teeth are often signs of clenching, grinding or TMJ strain. We find out what is overworking your jaw and treat the cause, not just the symptoms.

1100+ 5-star Google reviewsSame-day appointments for urgent concernsFleetwood and Newton clinics
Signs to look for

Your Jaw Should Not Hurt When You Chew, Talk or Wake Up

The temporomandibular joints (TMJ) connect your lower jaw to your skull. When the muscles around them are strained by clenching, grinding or an uneven bite, you can feel it as jaw pain, headaches or tight facial muscles.

Many people grind their teeth at night without knowing it. Worn, chipped or sensitive teeth are often the first clue we see at an exam.

Why it happens

What Overworks the Jaw

Several factors often combine, which is why we look at the whole picture.

Grinding & Clenching

Nighttime grinding and daytime clenching overload the jaw joints and muscles.

Stress & Tension

Stress often shows up as a tight jaw, clenched teeth and facial muscle tension.

Bite Imbalance

Teeth that do not meet evenly can strain the joints every time you chew.

Airway & Sleep

Grinding at night can be a sign of a restricted airway or disrupted sleep.

How we diagnose

Finding What Is Straining Your Jaw

An accurate diagnosis is the first step to lasting relief.

We listen first

You tell us where it hurts, when it started and what makes it better or worse.

Jaw and bite exam

We check the joints, the muscles and how your teeth meet when you bite.

3D imaging if needed

3D CBCT imaging shows the joints and bite in detail when the exam calls for it.

A plan that fits

We explain the cause and recommend treatment, often starting with a custom night guard.

Treatment options

Treatments That Relieve Jaw Pain and Grinding

Most plans combine two or more of these, depending on the cause.

TMJ Treatment

Relief for jaw pain, clicking and headaches caused by joint and muscle strain.

Learn more

Custom Night Guards

Protect your teeth and ease pressure on the joints while you sleep.

Learn more

Emface Muscle Therapy

Non-invasive therapy that relaxes and re-balances overworked facial muscles.

Learn more

Bite Correction

Invisalign or restorative care to even out the bite for long-term stability.

Learn more
Good to know

Jaw Pain & TMJ Questions

What causes TMJ disorders?
TMJ disorders can result from teeth grinding, jaw clenching, stress, bite misalignment, arthritis, trauma or muscle strain. Often several factors combine.
Will a night guard help my jaw pain?
Many patients feel relief with a custom night guard because it reduces pressure on the jaw joints and protects the teeth from grinding. It is usually the first step in treatment.
Is grinding damaging my teeth?
It can be. Grinding wears enamel, chips edges and can crack teeth or make them sensitive. Catching it early protects your teeth and any dental work.
When should I see a dentist about jaw pain?
Book an evaluation if jaw pain, clicking or headaches keep coming back, if your jaw locks, or if you notice worn or chipped teeth.
Is jaw pain connected to snoring or sleep apnea?
Sometimes. Grinding at night can be linked to a restricted airway. Learn more about sleep apnea and airway health.

Wake Up Without Jaw Pain

Book a TMJ evaluation at our Fleetwood or Newton clinic. We will find what is straining your jaw and help you feel comfortable again.

New patients welcome

Request an Appointment

Give us a call or fill out the form and our team will get back to you shortly.