Have you ever experienced jaw pain, clicking sounds, or difficulty opening and closing your mouth? If so, the chances are you might have temporomandibular disorder (TMD). This common condition affects the temporomandibular joint (TMJ), which is the hinge that connects your jaw to your skull. But what exactly causes TMD, and is there something you can do to find relief?
Teeth Grinding (Bruxism)
One of the most common causes of TMD is grinding and clenching your teeth, also known as bruxism. Many people do this unconsciously, especially at night, and over time the habit puts excessive strain on your jaw. Eventually, this leads to inflammation, soreness, and even misalignment of the joint.
If you wake up with jaw pain, notice your teeth are flattened or chipped, or experience tooth sensitivity, bruxism might be the culprit! Fortunately, dentists can provide nightguards that can protect your pearly whites from excessive grinding as you sleep.
Stress
According to the American Psychological Association, the average American spends their day-to-day life at a 5 out of 10 stress level. As stress levels increase, so can the tension that’s placed upon your jaw joint as the muscles clench.
Over time, this extra pressure on the TMJ can result in discomfort, clicking sounds, and limited jaw movement. So, if you think stress has a hand in your jaw pain, consider relaxation techniques like meditation, gentle jaw stretches, or a warm compress to relieve tension.
Jaw Injury or Trauma
A direct injury to your jaw—whether from a fall, accident or sports injury—can lead to TMD. Even relatively minor trauma can throw off the delicate balance of the joint, causing pain and difficulty chewing or speaking.
If you’ve recently had an accident involving your jaw and started experiencing symptoms, it’s a good idea to see your dentist for an evaluation.
Poor Posture
Surprisingly, slouching at your desk or looking down at your phone for long periods can also contribute to TMD. According to the American Posture Institute, hunching forward can strain the muscles around your jaw and neck, leading to tension and discomfort.
If you start to feel tension in your jaw as you work or scroll, take a break! Use the time to adjust your posture and do some gentle stretching of your neck and spine to appease your TMJ.
TMD can be frustrating, but understanding its causes is the first step toward relief. If you’re dealing with jaw pain, don’t wait—contact your dentist to schedule a consultation. Together, you can find the root of your TMD symptoms and work towards a solution that fits your needs.
About the Author
Dr. Vy Tran is a friendly and passionate dentist with a doctorate from the University of Maryland at Baltimore. She truly enjoys working with her patients, helping them find solutions to complex dental issues—including TMJ disorders. Whatever you need to achieve your best smile, Dr. Tran can deliver a custom treatment plan designed just for you! Call (410) 729-9090 to schedule a TMJ consultation at Transcendent Smiles or visit our website to learn more.