That Jaw Pain Might Not Be Just Stress

You wake up with a sore jaw, your head is pounding again, and chewing gum—or even a sandwich—feels like more effort than it should. If any of that sounds familiar, your jaw might be trying to tell you something. Keep reading to learn what that may be and how we can help.

Common Signs of TMD

Symptoms like jaw pain while chewing and persistent headaches are often tied to temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorder, also called TMD. It affects the joints and muscles that help you chew, speak, and move your jaw comfortably. And while it’s common, it’s also commonly overlooked, especially since the symptoms can show up in unexpected ways.

TMD doesn’t always show up the same way for everyone, but there are a few telltale signs that something’s going on with your jaw:

• Frequent jaw pain or stiffness: Pain when you chew, yawn, or talk—especially in the morning—can be a sign that your jaw joints and muscles are under strain.
• Clicking, popping, or locking: If your jaw makes noise when you open your mouth, or it occasionally feels stuck, that could be related to joint misalignment.
• Headaches that don’t go away: Tension headaches or pain around the temples and ears are often mistaken for migraines or sinus issues when the jaw is the source.
• Pain in your neck, shoulders, or upper back: TMD can cause tension that spreads beyond your jaw, leading to general discomfort that’s easy to misdiagnose.
• Limited range of motion: If your jaw feels tight or you struggle to open your mouth fully, the joints themselves might be inflamed or irritated.

Why Early Care Matters

We’re passionate about whole-body health, and that includes addressing issues like jaw joint pain and sleep disruptions. Dr. Caldon and our dedicated team offer advanced care to help you feel better and move through life with less tension and discomfort.

Whether it’s a custom nightguard or a more in-depth solution, we’ll walk you through your options and find the right approach for you. Getting ahead of the problem now can prevent long-term complications and improve your quality of life.

Let’s Help You Feel Like Yourself Again

If you’ve been dealing with jaw pain, tension, or other signs of TMD, we’d love to take a closer look. The right care can ease your discomfort, protect your joints, and help you feel more like yourself again. 

Call our dental office located in Plattsburgh, NY to schedule your TMD consultation. We’re here to help you find relief.