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Taking Control of TMJ Disorder

You may not have heard of it, but you use it hundreds of times every day. It is the Temporomandibular Joint (TMJ), the joint where the mandible (the lower jaw) joins the temporal bone of the skull, immediately in front of the ear on each side of your head.

Clicking and aching jaw?

Question
My jaw started clicking 2 days ago when I yawn, now today its aching and feels out of place is it possible to pull muscles. It started suddenly and i have never had problems with it before.
Answers


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There is a joint in your jaw called the templarmandibular jaw (TMJ) joint. When you yawned, you probably stretched it a bit too far. You can try warmth or ice on it and resting it, (try not to open too widely) for a few days. If that doesn't help, it might be time to see a dentist or chiropractor. Years ago, when I had a problem with this, my chiropractor adjusted it. I do it myself now. Take the pad of your thumb, place it past your teeth on whichever side hurts, right at the place your upper and lower jaw meet. Bring your upper and lower teeth together gently. Now press with the pad of your thumb at the area I told you to put it. Whatever amount of pressure feels good and count to five. Release pressure for count of five, then apply pressure for a count of five. Do that 3-8 times a couple of times a day. That's what I do to fix the problem. Maybe it will work for you. I'm not responsible for any damage should you do this the wrong way and harm yourself.
(Babs)

Its possibly TMJ, or it could be from grinding your teeth when you are asleep. Try using ALEVE, maybe use a mouth guard while you sleep.
(Dr. Jay Beuachmin)