Temporomandibular joint disorder, commonly referred to as TMJ or TMD, is a condition that affects the jaw joint and the muscles that control jaw movement. This joint connects your jawbone to your skull and plays a crucial role in essential daily functions such as chewing, speaking, and yawning. When problems arise in this joint, they can cause significant discomfort and affect quality of life. But what actually causes TMJ is multifaceted and can vary from person to person.
Jaw Misalignment and Structural Issues
One of the most common causes of TMJ involves problems with the alignment of the jaw or the joint itself. If the jaw doesn’t line up properly with the skull, the muscles and joints can become overworked and strained. This misalignment can be the result of congenital issues, past injuries, or changes in how the teeth fit together (your bite). Over time, an unbalanced bite can put uneven pressure on the temporomandibular joint, leading to pain and dysfunction.
Stress and Muscle Tension
Stress plays a surprisingly large role in the development of TMJ. Many people unknowingly clench their jaws or grind their teeth, especially during sleep, when experiencing stress or anxiety. This habit, known as bruxism, can severely strain the jaw muscles and the joint itself. The repetitive motion and pressure wear down cartilage, cause inflammation, and lead to a range of TMJ symptoms, including jaw pain, headaches, and even earaches.
Injury or Trauma
Direct trauma to the jaw, head, or neck can also lead to TMJ. Car accidents, sports injuries, or even a sudden blow to the face can damage the joint or surrounding muscles. Sometimes, the damage is immediate and noticeable. Other times, symptoms develop gradually as the joint tries to heal but doesn’t function the same way as before. Even if the injury occurred years ago, the resulting imbalance or scar tissue can contribute to TMJ symptoms later in life.
Arthritis and Joint Degeneration
TMJ can also be linked to arthritis, particularly osteoarthritis or rheumatoid arthritis. These conditions involve inflammation and degradation of the joints, and the temporomandibular joint is no exception. In osteoarthritis, the cartilage within the joint gradually wears away, causing bones to rub together. In rheumatoid arthritis, the immune system attacks the lining of the joints, including the TMJ, leading to pain, swelling, and stiffness. These degenerative changes can severely impair the function of the jaw.
Hormonal and Genetic Factors
Emerging research suggests that hormones may play a role in TMJ, particularly in women. TMJ disorders are significantly more common in women than men, and some scientists believe that estrogen may be a contributing factor. Additionally, genetics can influence susceptibility. If TMJ runs in your family, you may be more likely to experience it yourself, especially if combined with other risk factors like stress or jaw misalignment.
Habits and Lifestyle
Certain habits and lifestyle choices can aggravate or even contribute to the onset of TMJ. Frequent gum chewing, nail biting, or resting your chin on your hand for long periods can put strain on the jaw joint. Poor posture, especially forward head posture common with excessive screen time, can also affect the alignment and function of the TMJ. Over time, these small habits can accumulate into chronic stress on the joint.
TMJ Treatment in Bladenboro, NC
At Bladenboro Family Dentistry, your oral health is our top priority. If you suffer from chronic jaw pain, stiffness, or clicking, then TMJ could be the culprit. Contact our office today to schedule a consultation and learn more about your treatment options and how to prevent worsening symptoms.