Did you know that November is TMJ Awareness Month? It’s the perfect time to shine a light on this often-overlooked issue that impacts millions of Americans. TMJ disorder (TMJD) can disrupt everyday life, causing discomfort and limitations with simple tasks like chewing, speaking, and even sleeping.

TMJ: More Common Than You Might Think

Approximately 36 million Americans suffer from TMJ issues, and 90% of patients seeking treatment are women of childbearing age. Studies also show that TMJ disorders often coexist with 30 or more health conditions, from chronic headaches and migraines to neck pain and sleep disturbances. So, if you’re experiencing TMJ pain, you’re not alone—and help is available.

What is TMJ Disorder?

TMJ disorder impacts the temporomandibular joint, which connects the jaw to the skull. When this joint or the surrounding muscles are tense, misaligned, or inflamed, a range of symptoms can follow:

Persistent jaw pain or tension
Clicking or popping sounds when chewing
Headaches or migraines
Facial discomfort
Difficulty chewing or opening the mouth fully

Why Does TMJ Pain Happen?

TMJ pain often has deeper root causes, including:

Stress and teeth grinding: Many people unconsciously clench or grind their teeth, especially at night, which strains the jaw muscles.
Poor posture: Spending long hours in a forward head or slouched position can put strain on the jaw and neck, affecting jaw alignment.
Oral habits and muscle imbalances: Oral habits like mouth breathing or improper tongue posture can throw off the balance of muscles in the jaw and neck, worsening TMJ pain over time.

How Can Myofunctional Therapy Help?

Myofunctional therapy is unique because it targets the root causes of TMJ discomfort by retraining muscle patterns to support natural alignment and balance. Here’s how it can make a difference:

Promotes nasal breathing: Breathing through the nose rather than the mouth can reduce strain on jaw muscles, alleviating tension.
Encourages proper tongue posture: Positioning the tongue correctly helps balance facial muscles, easing strain on the jaw.
Supports balanced muscle function: Exercises for the jaw, cheek, and neck muscles improve overall stability, relieving pressure on the TMJ.

The Benefits of Myofunctional Therapy for TMJ

By addressing these muscle imbalances, myofunctional therapy provides more than just symptom relief. Here’s what you can expect:

Reduced jaw pain and facial tension
Fewer headaches and migraines
Improved sleep quality and less teeth grinding
Long-term jaw stability

Imagine a life where chewing, talking, and resting are comfortable and easy—without constant TMJ pain interrupting your day.

Is Myofunctional Therapy Right for You?

This TMJ Awareness Month, consider taking the step toward lasting relief. Unlike treatments that mask symptoms temporarily, myofunctional therapy gets to the root cause, giving you control over your health and comfort.

Ready to explore how myofunctional therapy can relieve your TMJ symptoms? Schedule a consultation to learn more about how to achieve better function and comfort through individualized treatment!

Myofunctional Therapy for TMJ Disorders