Teeth grinding or clenching

The clinical term for this is bruxism and it's the main reason people come to me for TMJ massage. It's pretty easy for most people to make the link between grinding or clenching their jaw and pain.

Often, grinding happens at night. Your partner might tell you about it if it disturbs their sleep, or your dentist might notice signs of wear on your teeth. Clenching happens at night too but can happen in the day as well, particularly if you're stressed or concentrating hard on a task. If this has become habitual, chances are you won't even notice yourself doing it.

Grinding and clenching the jaw causes damage to your teeth, which can be expensive, painful and traumatic. Mouthguards can help, and I advocate the use of them, but they're for protecting the teeth rather than doing anything to reduce the issue.

Headaches and migraines

Not being able to open the mouth fully

Chronic neck and shoulder pain

Curiosity!