TMJ refers to the temporomandibular joints, and their involved muscles, bones and ligaments, which connect your lower jaw to your skull and allow you to open, close, and move your mouth. Problems with these joints or the surrounding muscles can cause jaw pain, clicking, stiffness, headaches, and facial discomfort.
Bruxism is the habit of clenching or grinding the teeth, most commonly during sleep but sometimes during the day. Over time, this can place strain on the jaw joints and muscles, wear down teeth, cause fractures, and contribute to headaches and facial pain.
TMJ symptoms and clenching/grinding (bruxism) are often closely linked. Tooth grinding and clenching can overload the jaw joints and muscles, while jaw joint problems can increase muscle tension and clenching.
A dental assessment usually as a part of an exam - can help determine whether your symptoms are related to TMJ dysfunction, bruxism, or a combination of both, and guide appropriate management.