New school schedules. End-of-summer catch-up at work. Less daylight and more screen time. September brings a wave of changes—and for many, it also brings an uptick in jaw pain, tension headaches, and restless sleep. If this sounds familiar, the culprit might be TMJ disorder or nighttime teeth grinding. The why your jaw hurts story could have more to do with your daily routine than you think.

Small Joints, Big Disruption

TMJ (temporomandibular joint) disorders can stem from stress-related behaviors like clenching or grinding, especially during seasonal transitions. 

The result? Jaw stiffness, popping sounds, facial pain, migraines, and even neck or shoulder tension. Many people don’t realize these symptoms are linked to their bite or jaw alignment.

The Power of a Custom Solution

At Valley Dental and Orthodontics, we offer advanced, non-surgical relief through custom night guards and bite therapies. These comfortable oral appliances reduce strain on the joints, protect your teeth from grinding damage, and support healthier muscle alignment. 

For patients with more complex TMJ issues, we may recommend additional restorative or orthodontic solutions to improve long-term balance.

Sleep Better, Feel Better

Ignoring TMJ symptoms can affect your sleep, mood, and even your ability to concentrate. A custom night guard doesn’t just ease discomfort—it can improve your energy and quality of life. 

As your schedule fills back up this fall, prioritizing your jaw health could be the secret to staying focused and pain-free.

If you’ve noticed why your jaw hurts is becoming a seasonal pattern, now’s the time to address it. Schedule an appointment at Valley Dental and Orthodontics to learn how TMJ treatment can help you feel—and sleep—better. Call 925-235-1565 for an appointment in Dublin, CA. You can also ​​schedule online.