Understanding Myofascial (TMJ) Pain – Causes, Symptoms & Advice
TMJ or Myofascial pain affects the jaw muscles and joints, often causing a dull, aching pain that can be hard to pinpoint. It’s common – affecting one in four people at some point – and is often triggered by unconscious habits like tooth grinding or clenching, particularly during stress. Understanding the causes and making small adjustments can help relieve the discomfort and prevent it from becoming a long-term issue.
What is myofascial or TMJ pain?
It’s muscle-related pain that affects the jaw, jaw joints and surrounding muscles. It often feels like a dull toothache but comes from tense, tired jaw muscles rather than the teeth themselves.
How common is TMJ pain?
It’s very common – about one in four people experience it at some point. Both men and women are affected equally, although women tend to seek treatment more often.
What causes TMJ pain?
The most common cause is tooth clenching or grinding, often triggered by stress, anxiety or concentration. This can happen during the day or while sleeping. Night-time grinding tends to be more damaging and harder to control.
What causes the pain and discomfort?
When jaw muscles are overworked from clenching or grinding, they become tired and go into spasm – a cramp-like condition that causes aching, pain and sometimes limited jaw movement.
How can I relieve TMJ pain?
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Avoid chewing on hard foods or objects like pens and nails
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Eat evenly on both sides
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Avoid yawning with your mouth wide open
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Apply warmth to the sore area (like a warm water bottle)
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Check if you’re clenching — teeth should be apart when resting
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In some cases, replacing missing back teeth helps balance your bite
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Your dentist can make a protective appliance (splint) to help reduce clenching and grinding, especially at night
