The temporomandibular joint (TMJ) is a complex part of the body that can easily develop TMJ disorder (TMD). Someone who suffers from TMD may have difficulty enjoying their daily life and eating their favorite foods. Why does this problem occur? In some cases, the cause remains unknown. In other cases, a dentist is about to diagnose the underlying problem. Let’s talk about some common TMD causes.
Injury
Injury to the face or jaw can contribute to TMJ pain. This is true even if the injury has already healed. For example, if you had a broken jaw in the past, you may be at a heightened risk of future or ongoing struggles with TMD.
Stress
When you are stressed, muscle tension is likely to follow. That stress can affect the area around your TMJ, causing facial soreness, jaw pain, and more. Stress is also strongly correlated with bruxism (teeth grinding and clenching). Chronic bruxism often occurs at night, so you might not even be aware that you are doing it. However, it can still place a lot of strain on your TMJ and contribute to TMD symptoms.
A Misaligned Bite
The upper and lower teeth should fit well together when you close your mouth. If that isn’t the case, your TMJ may have to compensate for the misalignment by working extra hard, leading to TMD symptoms. In some cases, a bad bite is due to genetics or crooked teeth. In other cases, a patient has a crown or bridge that doesn’t fit with their natural teeth as well as it should.
Arthritis
There are quite a few different types of arthritis, but they are all characterized by joint pain and inflammation. Unfortunately, the TMJ is not invulnerable to this disease. Arthritis can develop following an injury, or it may arise because of genetics or other factors.
Poor Posture
Poor posture may contribute to TMD. If you do not sit and stand properly, it can cause widespread musculoskeletal misalignment, which in turn may cause your TMJ to become misaligned and develop painful symptoms. (The opposite may also be true; people with TMD are more likely to experience pain in their neck, back, and shoulders.)
Genetics/Gender
Women of childbearing age are the group most likely to suffer from TMD. Some researchers believe this is due to slight anatomical variations in the jaw between the sexes, while others believe it is because men and women’s bodies tend to react differently to stress.
It isn’t possible to pinpoint the exact cause of TMD for every single patient. However, it is usually possible to find an effective treatment. A qualified dentist can analyze your symptoms and recommend the next steps on your road to long-lasting relief.
Meet the Practice
Dr. Robert Fromuth is an experienced dentist who is passionate about continually expanding his knowledge through advanced education. Together with Dr. Stephen L. Langlois, he is able to offer a range of effective TMJ treatments. If you would like to request an appointment with our team or learn more about our services, contact us at 603-644-3368.