Main Cause of TMJ

The temporomandibular joint (TMJ) is a hinge that connects the jawbone to the skull. TMJ disorder or dysfunction is a type of temporomandibular disorder (TMD). When a patient has TMJ disorder, it is common for them to experience pain in the jaw, ligament, or muscles, headaches, jaw pain, and difficulty closing and opening the mouth.

While it is common to call these conditions TMJ, the TMJ acronym describes the affected jaw joint. TMD describes temporomandibular joint disorder or dysfunction. There are two temporomandibular joints located on both sides of the face, which are located in front of the ears. The joints are critical in completing routine movements such as chewing and speaking.

TMJ disorder is relatively common and impacts many adults at some point in their lives. The disorder is more common in women and patients between the ages of 20 and 40. Additional details on the causes and symptoms of TMJ disorder are outlined below.

Causes of TMJ

The main cause of TMJ disorders can be challenging to identify as it is typically caused by a combination of factors and habits. Below are some of the most common causes of TMJ disorder:

  1. Arthritis located in the jaw joint
  2. Chronic teeth grinding and jaw clenching
  3. Injury or trauma to the jaw, including a break or dislocation
  4. High levels of stress
  5. Misalignment of the teeth which causes them not to fit together

There are often factors outside the patient’s control that can result in TMJ disorder. The following habits can make TMJ disorder worse or aggravate the symptoms:

  • Poor posture, which puts pressure on the shoulders, neck, and facial muscles
  • Making the teeth a tool to open things
  • Chewing on nails, pens, or objects other than food
  • Excessive gum chewing or eating ice
  • Eating large bites of food which creates extra work for the jaw
  • Jaw clenching or teeth grinding, which may take place during the day or at night
  • Sleeping face down

Symptoms

There are various symptoms associated with TMJ disorder, which are outlined below:

  1. Pain in the face or jaw
  2. Neck or shoulder pain
  3. Jaw stiffness or difficulty in opening and closing the mouth
  4. Ongoing jaw clicking or popping
  5. Migraines or chronic headaches
  6. Toothaches
  7. Ringing or pain in the ears
  8. A malocclusion or change the bite

Complications

TMJ disorder can result in complications including chronic pain, challenges with chewing, and damage to the teeth. A dental professional or healthcare provider typically diagnoses TMJ disorder, which is commonly done during a routine examination or checkup.

Diagnosis

The dental professional will typically observe the patient when opening and closing their mouth, determining if the patient is experiencing any pain, and feeling the jaw joints during opening and closing. The dental professional may order imaging tests to have better visibility of the jaw joints and surrounding structures.

Patients who are concerned that they may have TMJ disorder should call the office for an appointment. The team can review your symptoms, help identify the cause, and create an effective treatment plan (which may include a night guard) to ensure you maintain good oral health.

Best way to get rid of TMJ