Temporomandibular joint dysfunction (TMJ or TMD) refers to abnormalities of the TMJ joint. This is a moving joint that allows for chewing and speaking. It also connects your jaw to your skull. When this joint doesn’t function properly, it can mean a clicking sound when chewing, headaches, jaw pain, swelling, shoulder, ear and neck aches. If left untreated, symptoms can escalate and even make opening your mouth too difficult or painful. Your dentist in Fort Collins provides TMJ treatment to alleviate these symptoms so you can sleep better at night and wakeup without the pain. TMJ Causes TMJ can result from a misaligned jaw, injury, bruxism (grinding and clenching your teeth), and more. In …