Jaw and TMJ: what parents should know

The temporomandibular joints (TMJ) connect the lower jaw to the skull, just in front of the ears. Children and teens can have jaw pain, clicking or tightness too. Muscle habits like clenching, grinding, chewing on one side or resting with the mouth open can add strain to the jaw.

• Signs to watch for
• Habits that can strain the jaw
• What helps
• When to reach out