Medically reviewed by Dr. Dunia Korous, DDS
Jaw pain, clicking, or a jaw that locks up can be more than an occasional annoyance, it’s often a sign of temporomandibular joint disorder (TMD), sometimes called TMJ. If you’re searching for a dentist near me in Frisco, TX who can explain what’s causing your pain and what to do about it, here’s what you need to know.
Putting a Name to Your Jaw Pain
TMD is an acronym for temporomandibular joint disorder, a condition affecting the jaw joint that’s estimated to affect roughly 1 in 10 adults. Common symptoms patients describe include:
- Unexplained swelling around the jawline
- Ongoing pain in the neck, head, or jaw
- Limited mobility or a jaw that feels stuck
- Occasional locking of the jaw joint
- Audible clicking or popping sounds
- New or unexplained tooth sensitivity
If any of these sound familiar, a dental exam is the only reliable way to confirm TMD and rule out other causes. At Millennium Smiles, Dr. Dunia Korous has completed advanced TMJ evaluation and treatment training with Dr. Steven Olmos, DDS, a recognized authority in craniofacial pain, and uses tools like CBCT imaging, joint vibration analysis, and electromyography to identify the specific cause before recommending treatment.
Do’s and Don’ts While You Wait for Your Appointment
If you’re managing jaw discomfort in the meantime, these steps can help:
DO plan meals around foods that don’t require a lot of chewing.
DO pay attention to your sleep position and keep your jaw supported and relaxed.
DON’T chew on hard objects like fingernails, pens, ice, or tortilla chips.
DON’T clench your jaw when you’re stressed, try to stay mindful of it.
DON’T rely on over-the-counter pain relievers as a long-term fix. A custom-fitted appliance or targeted TMJ therapy plan addresses the cause rather than just the symptom.
Why Professional Treatment Matters
Leaving TMD untreated can allow the problem to spread beyond the jaw, contributing to neck and back pain, more frequent headaches, and in some cases hearing or balance issues. Getting an evaluation early generally means simpler, more conservative treatment options.
Ready to find out what’s causing your jaw pain? Schedule a consultation with Dr. Korous at Millennium Smiles in Frisco, TX.
Medically reviewed by Dunia Korous, D.D.S., FICOI, MICOI on
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