Your dentist may recommend a mouthguard, as a first port of call, to prevent any damage to the upper and lower teeth if teeth grinding occurs. “This will also keep the jaw in the correct position, relieving any pressure,” Dr Jethwa says.

“There are also ways you can ease the symptoms yourself, such as opting for soft foods, massaging the jaw muscles, taking paracetamol and applying a heat pack to the jaw. If damage has occurred to the teeth, then cosmetic dentistry treatments such as veneers and composite bonding may be desirable to alter the appearance of your smile.”

Botox is sometimes used by TMD sufferers to manage symptoms, too. But, says NHS GP Dr Aneesha Ahmad, botox can’t cure TMD. “Botulinum toxin injections work by temporarily relaxing muscles, although it’s important to note that this is not a permanent cure but rather a way to manage symptoms,” she says. “In the context of TMD, it’s used to target the muscles responsible for jaw clenching and grinding, and [injections] can reduce their activity. That can, in turn, alleviate pain and discomfort associated with the disorder.

If your TMD is caused by stress and anxiety, it’s worth exploring ways to manage mental wellbeing, such as incorporating more stress-relieving practices (yoga and meditation, for example) into your routine, and addressing the root cause of stress, too. Therapy may also help to relieve feelings of anxiety. And, of course, it’s always worth getting checked out by your dentist or doctor if you’re worried about symptoms.

Jaw pain and stiffness are both signs of TMD – here’s how to treat the condition