Can Teeth Grinding or Bruxism Cause TMJ?

March 14, 2023

The relationship between teeth grinding and temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders is complex to say the least. Your temporomandibular joints are sophisticated joints, and they experience frequent use due to chewing, speaking, and yawning.

Millions of people suffer from TMJ disorders, which can have numerous potential causes, including an improper bite or overuse of the jaw. But can teeth grinding, also called bruxism, cause TMJ? Here are a few important things to know.

Jaw Clenching and Teeth Grinding Can Cause TMJ-Related Pain

Bruxism includes jaw clenching and teeth grinding. Both of these actions require muscle forces which can put immense pressure on jaw joints [1]. This is especially true if you clench or grind your teeth during sleep and are unaware of it.

The pressure these forces put on the temporomandibular joints can cause muscle tension and inflammation, which can show up in the form of headaches, facial pain, jaw pain, and even pain in neck or shoulders. All of these can be symptoms of bruxism and, consequently, TMJ.

Bruxism Can Wear Down Teeth and Lead to Malocclusion

Teeth grinding has been linked to malocclusion, which is another way of saying an improper bite. An improper bite can cause tension in the jaw and the muscles that support the temporomandibular joints when chewing or speaking. Over time, a poor bite can lead t TMJ issues.

But where does teeth grinding come in?

People who grind their teeth frequently are more likely to have worn-down teeth. So where a person may have had a proper bite to begin with, they now have flatter surfaces of their teeth that can affect how well their teeth fit together due to bruxism [2]. As a result of this imbalance, TMJ pain can develop.

The Stress Link Between Bruxism and TMJ

Both bruxism and TMJ disorders can have a common underlying cause: stress. Stress, including emotional stress and anxiety, has the potential to influence the development of TMJ symptoms such as jaw pain and clicking and popping sounds in the joints [3].

The same is true for bruxism. Research shows that stress, including anger, anxiety, work related stress, and emotional disturbances, can increase one’s risk for teeth grinding [4]. It’s possible that chronic stress or anxiety could cause bruxism, which could then lead to the development of TMJ symptoms.

Fortunately, stress management and appropriate treatments can help reduce the symptoms of teeth grinding, jaw clenching, and TMJ disorders in such cases.

Do You Have Symptoms of Bruxism or TMJ?

You don’t have to live with chronic jaw discomfort or worn-down teeth from bruxism. If you have symptoms of either bruxism or TMJ—including headaches, facial pain, or jaw discomfort—don’t hesitate to follow up with an oral healthcare professional experienced in diagnosing and treating these disorders to start experiencing relief.