Many people live with a sore jaw, a clicking joint or morning headaches for years without realising their teeth and bite might be involved. Your teeth, jaw muscles and jaw joints work as one system, and when that system is out of balance, it often shows up in surprising ways.

Common signs to watch for

• Pain or tiredness in the jaw, especially in the morning
• Clicking, popping or grating when you open your mouth
• Headaches around the temples
• Teeth that look worn, flat, chipped or cracked
• A bite that feels 'off' or changes from day to day
• Difficulty opening your mouth fully

What is TMD?

TMD, or temporomandibular disorder, is a broad term for problems with the jaw joints and the muscles that move them. Causes vary: clenching and grinding, stress, injury, arthritis and bite problems can all play a part, which is why a careful assessment matters more than a quick fix.

Where occlusion comes in

Occlusion simply means how your teeth come together. When contacts are uneven, some muscles may work harder to compensate, and certain teeth can take more force than they're built for. Dr. Chiasson has pursued advanced continuing education in occlusion, bite disorders and TMD, so he looks at teeth, muscles and joints together.

What an assessment involves

We'll start by listening: when the symptoms happen, what helps and what makes them worse. Then we examine your bite, jaw movement, joints and muscles. Treatment usually starts conservatively, for example, a custom night guard to protect teeth from grinding, habit changes, or small bite adjustments. When another professional can help, such as a physiotherapist, we'll tell you.

When to book

If jaw pain, clicking or clenching is affecting your day, or your teeth are showing signs of wear, it's worth having it looked at. Early care is simpler and protects your teeth for the long term.