Jaw pain doesn’t always imply a dental health issue, but persistent discomfort that interferes with your daily life may be indicative of TMJ disorder. The temporomandibular joint, or TMJ, is a complicated hinge that connects your lower jaw to your skull and gives it the wide range of movement necessary for proper chewing and speaking. Here’s a quick look at how TMJ disorder can happen and what you should do to avoid exacerbating the problem.
What Causes TMJ Disorder?
TMJ disorder can be caused by factors like:
- Teeth grinding: This habit can stress the connective tissues in the TMJ and gradually work it out of proper alignment.
- Injury: A fall or a blow to the face can force one or more of the parts holding the TMJ in place out of balance.
- Arthritis: Erosion of the cartilage in the TMJ can make jaw movements quite uncomfortable.
- Sleep apnea: This frustrating health condition can disrupt proper sleep patterns, and it is associated with teeth grinding and TMJ disorder.
- Dental injuries: Broken teeth or eroded enamel can unevenly redistribute the pressure of chewing, which can strain the TMJ.
What Can Worsen My TMJ Disorder?
Habits to avoid if you suspect you have TMJ disorder include:
- Chewing gum: Constant chewing can stress the TMJ and may work it further out of alignment.
- Resting your head on your chin: This can increase the erosion of dental enamel and put unnecessary strain on the TMJ.
- Eating tough or hard foods: Chewing on foods that are excessively crunchy, sticky, tough, or chewy may stress the TMJ and worsen its discomfort.
- Slouching: Poor posture can stress the muscles that hold the TMJ in place.
- Bad oral practices: Using your teeth to open packages or to gnaw on ice or inedible materials such as metal, wood, plastic, or glass can seriously damage your teeth and strain your TMJ.
How Can My Dentist Help?
In many cases, dentists can treat TMJ disorder with devices such as occlusal splints or customized nightguards. An occlusal splint is designed to be worn during sleep so it can shift the jaw into healthier position. Similarly, a nightguard will keep a sleeper’s teeth braced and separated so they cannot grind together during sleep, which can prevent dental damage and jaw strain. In some cases, a dentist can treat TMJ disorder by using BOTOX® injections to prevent unnecessary muscle strain.
Don’t let TMJ disorder cause you constant pain. Consulting with your dentist can help you restore comfort to your jaw.
About the Author
Dr. Timothy M. Jackson earned his dental degree at the University of Alabama at Birmingham and keeps his skills current by regularly completing continuing education coursework. He is a proud member of the American Dental Association and the Alabama Dental Association. His office in Elba offers general, restorative, cosmetic, and emergency dentistry as well as TMJ treatment. If you are concerned about jaw pain, contact his practice online or dial (334) 897-3418.