CAUSES OF TMJ
Trauma - Acute trauma to the jaws such as a car accident, a fall or a punch can cause damage to the muscles and/or joint. The acute pain and loss of function is usually responsive to conservative treatment. Sometimes trauma to the joint can cause chronic damage which may eventually contribute to a TMJ problem at a later time.
Clenching or Grinding - Some do this while awake but more often it is done while sleeping. Most people grind their teeth while sleeping to some degree. For whatever reason some people do this to the point where they wear the enamel from their teeth. This constant pressure also can damage the TMJs over time.
Malocclusion - This term means "bad bite". Sometimes when the teeth do not bite together in harmony with the shape and position of the joints it can place pressure on the joints. Missing teeth can sometimes contribute to this as well. The misalignment can also put strain on the jaw muscles. This factor can be mild to severe. Though the bite is an important part of the whole system it is only altered after conservative measures and only if it is felt improvement will result. Treatment of the bite for TMJ is usually not needed but its contribution to the whole must be examined.
Emotion - Emotional stress often plays an integral role in the development of TMJ. This occurs due to two basic reasons. Stress increases both the severity and duration of clenching or grinding while asleep. Also, many will subconsciously clench and/or grind their teeth more while awake during times of stress. The other way stress contributes to TMJ is that during times of stress your adaptability and pain threshold will go down. As a result you are more likely to experience symptoms of TMJ if other factors already exist. Emotional conditions beyond daily life stress can contribute to TMJ as well. Depression, anxiety disorders, and the like can often have TMJ problems arise.
Posture & Poise - Your job and how you sit and work on a regular basis can contribute to TMJ and related problems. If you work at a computer all day, for example, you may be holding your head in such a way that places strain on your TM system.
To resolve any TMJ disorder, the severity of the situation must be assessed. This can be achieved by using examinations and x-rays to give your dentist a clear understanding of what may have caused the problem and therefore the extent of the treatment required. During this check your dentist may take impressions of your teeth to check your bite to eliminate one problem that could be causing the discomfort. Your complete medical history will also be reviewed to take into account your background and any current illnesses that can be lined to TMJ disorders.
From this, we will be able to provide a treatment plan that is individual to your own needs and to help resolve the pain and discomfort you are in.
It is important to understand how TMJ problems can not only affect your dental health but also your overall general health and wellbeing.
At Salcombe Dental Practice, our highly trained team is available to answer any questions you have on your dental health and whether you are suffering from TMJ problems. Explaining the symptoms and understanding the effects TMJ can have on your health is the first step towards a healthier future for you.
