This complex condition is actually a group of disorders that can significantly impact daily life, from eating to speaking and even yawning. Understanding the cause of TMJ disorders, often simply referred to as TMJ, is crucial for effective treatment and prevention.

So, what exactly causes problems with the temporomandibular joints? Here are a few of the most common culprits.

Jaw Trauma or Injury

Injury to the jaw can result in trauma that can lead to TMJ disorders. Car accidents, sports injuries, falls, and direct impacts to the face can cause TMJ symptoms like jaw pain, difficulty opening the mouth all the way, and tender muscles around these complex joints [1].

Teeth Grinding and Jaw Clenching

Certain behaviors can contribute to TMJ disorder development, including teeth grinding and jaw clenching, also known as bruxism. Bruxism can happen while the person is awake or asleep and commonly occurs during periods of stress. Research shows a complex relationship between TMJ pain and bruxism, so getting a proper evaluation with an experienced dentist is essential [2].

Underlying Medical Conditions

Several medical conditions can increase TMJ disorder risk, including osteoarthritis, which causes joint degeneration, and rheumatoid arthritis, which affects joint inflammation. Fibromyalgia, connective tissue diseases, and sleep disorders like obstructive sleep apnea have also been shown to influence a person’s risk for TMJ disorders [3].

Misaligned Teeth and Bite

Although it’s long been thought that malocclusion, or an improper bite, can lead to TMJ disorders, research doesn’t definitively conclude that a bad bite can cause TMJ [4]. However, it is possible that misaligned teeth or poorly fitted dental restorations can create an uneven bite, affecting jaw alignment and leading to stress on the joints.

Stress and Emotional Factors

Psychological aspects have the potential to significantly impact TMJ health, according to research. For example, chronic stress can lead to muscle tension, which can influence a person’s risk for teeth grinding and TMJ pain. Anxiety and depression have also been linked to temporomandibular joint disorders [5]. Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) may also increase the risk of experiencing TMJ symptoms such as muscle tension, jaw pain, and headaches. 

Talk to Your Dentist About TMJ Pain

TMJ disorders have the potential to impact your quality of life, but treatment is available. If you’re dealing with jaw discomfort or dysfunction, ask your dentist about your jaw health and TMJ symptoms during your next visit to get personalized treatment recommendations. Your comfort and health are too important to ignore!

Sources:

1. https://tmj.org/living-with-tmj/basics/#elementor-toc__heading-anchor-2 
2. https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0300571221001329 
3. https://www.hopkinsmedicine.org/health/conditions-and-diseases/temporomandibular-disorder-tmd 
4. https://www.nidcr.nih.gov/health-info/tmd#causes
5. https://intapi.sciendo.com/pdf/10.1515/cipms-2015-0044

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