TMD and TMJ Cause, Symptoms, and Prevention

Millions of Americans experience persistent facial and neck pain, along with frequent headaches, which may be linked to Temporomandibular Disorder (TMD). Your temporomandibular joints (TMJs) connect your lower jaw to your skull, playing a crucial role in speaking, chewing, swallowing, and yawning.

When these joints become inflamed or restricted, they can negatively affect your daily life and overall well-being. TMD is often underdiagnosed, meaning many people endure discomfort without realizing that effective treatment options are available.

Recognizing the Symptoms of TMD

TMD symptoms can vary in severity and may include:

• Jaw pain or tenderness that worsens with movement, especially while eating or speaking

• Ear discomfort such as ringing, stuffiness, or pain that may resemble an ear infection

• Frequent headaches or neck pain that seem unrelated to other conditions

• Clicking or popping sounds when opening or closing the mouth, sometimes accompanied by pain

• Facial swelling, particularly near the jaw joints

• Muscle spasms or stiffness in the jaw area, making movement difficult

• Changes in bite alignment, causing difficulty in chewing or an uncomfortable sensation when biting down

• Jaw locking or limited mouth movement, preventing full opening or closing

• Pain spreading to the shoulders and upper back, leading to tension and discomfort

If left untreated, TMD symptoms can worsen over time, potentially leading to chronic pain and difficulty performing everyday activities.

What Causes TMJ Disorders?

The temporomandibular joint relies on smooth hinge and sliding motions for normal function. This movement is supported by cartilage and a shock-absorbing disk, which ensures seamless jaw movement. TMJ disorders can develop due to:

• Disk misalignment or erosion, leading to joint dysfunction and restricted movement

• Cartilage damage from arthritis causes stiffness, pain, and inflammation

• Jaw injuries or trauma, such as an impact, accident, or prolonged dental work that stresses the joint

• Teeth grinding (bruxism) or excessive jaw clenching, placing stress on the joint and causing muscle fatigue

• Poor posture, especially forward head posture, which strains the jaw and neck muscles

• Chronic stress leads to unconscious habits like jaw clenching or teeth grinding during sleep

Some individuals may have genetic predispositions to joint problems, making them more susceptible to developing TMJ disorders.

How to Prevent TMJ/TMD

While some causes of TMJ disorders are unavoidable, you can adopt healthy habits to minimize strain on your jaw and reduce the risk of developing TMD:

• Keep your face relaxed and maintain a natural jaw position with lips together but teeth slightly apart.

• Avoid excessive gum chewing and be mindful of teeth grinding, especially at night.

• Use a headset or speakerphone instead of cradling your phone between your head and shoulder.

• Chew evenly on both sides of your mouth to prevent jaw imbalance and muscle strain.

• Avoid resting your chin on your hand, as this can strain the jaw joint and alter alignment.

• Practice good posture, keeping your head aligned with your spine and shoulders squared to avoid excess pressure on your jaw.

• Engage in stress-relief activities such as yoga, meditation, or deep breathing exercises to reduce unconscious jaw clenching.

• Use heat or ice therapy if you notice jaw discomfort, as alternating between warm and cold compresses can help reduce inflammation.

• Consider using a nightguard if you grind your teeth while sleeping, as this can prevent damage to the TMJ and surrounding structures.

If you’re experiencing symptoms of TMJ/TMD, don’t wait to look for help. Contact our office to schedule a consultation. We are dedicated to helping you find relief and restore comfort to your daily life. Dr. Mariah Pewarski will assess your symptoms, discuss possible treatments, and develop a personalized plan to improve your jaw function and overall well-being.