TMJ (Temporo Mandibular Joint) Syndrome is a disorder of the jaw muscles and nerves caused by injury or inflammation to the temporo mandibular joint and which affects the function and movement of your jaw.
TMJ can feel as if your jaw is clicking or even getting stuck for a moment. Other symptoms include stiff or sore jaw muscles, earache, headaches, and pain in the temple area.
A well-known cause of TMJ Syndrome is teeth grinding and jaw clenching (also called bruxism) which is often related to stress or anxiety and even malocclusion. As this habit occurs during sleep patients may not even be aware they’re doing this.
Custom appliances can be made to prevent clenching of your teeth to reduce the harmful effects of teeth grinding or jaw clenching. Alternatively, Botox injections can be used to relax and control the muscle tension in the Temporomandibular Joint.