What Is the Main Cause of TMJ Disorder?

Do you suffer from regular jaw pain? Does your jaw make clicking noises when you chew or speak? You may be experiencing complications related to TMJ disorder. Read more to learn about this common condition, including what causes it and how to find relief.

What is TMJ Disorder?

Temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorder affects the joint that connects your jaw to your skull, causing pain and discomfort in the jaw area. This condition can lead to difficulty chewing, clicking or popping sounds in the jaw, and lingering headaches or earaches.

Main Causes of TMJ

• Jaw Trauma or Injury: One of the primary causes of TMJ disorder is trauma or injury to the jaw joint. This could result from a sports injury, car accident, or even something as simple as grinding your teeth.
• Teeth Grinding: Chronic teeth grinding, also known as bruxism, can put excessive pressure on the jaw joint, leading to TMJ disorder over time. Stress and anxiety are common triggers for bruxism, so finding ways to manage stress can help alleviate related symptoms of TMJ.
• Arthritis: Arthritis can also affect TMJ, leading to inflammation and pain in the joint. This is more common in older adults but can also occur in younger individuals.

Finding Relief from TMJ Disorder

If you’re experiencing symptoms of TMJ disorder, don’t despair—there are several treatment options available to help alleviate your discomfort. These may include:

• At-home remedies, such as taking over-the-counter pain relievers or applying an ice pack to your jaw.
• Lifestyle changes, such as meditation or other stress-relieving measures.
• TMJ physical therapy and stretching exercises.
• A custom-made mouthguard to prevent teeth grinding.

TMJ/TMD Therapy in San Antonio, Texas

You shouldn’t have to let TMJ pain affect your quality of life. Take proactive steps to manage your TMJ by calling Chandler Dental Center for personalized advice and treatment recommendations.

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Categorised in: Bruxism, Family Dental Care, TMJ/TMD

This post was written by ChandlerDentalCenter