9 Little-Known Facts About TMJ

Temporomandibular joint disorder, usually shortened to TMJ or TMD, affects a great many people, yet it remains surprisingly misunderstood. As a practice with a particular focus on the jaw, we’re keen to help you understand it, because understanding tends to be empowering. Here are some things you may not have known about TMJ.

First, a quick grounding in what it actually is.

What is TMJ?

The temporomandibular joint is the hinge that connects your jawbone to your skull, just in front of each ear. TMJ disorder refers to pain, discomfort or dysfunction in that joint. Common symptoms include jaw pain or tenderness, difficulty chewing, clicking or popping when opening and closing the mouth, and headaches.

With that foundation, here are some lesser-known facts worth knowing.

Nine things worth knowing

TMJ tends to be more common in women than men, and it most often affects adults in early-to-middle adulthood. Stress and anxiety can be contributing factors, and certain habits, particularly clenching or grinding the teeth, can play a part in its development.

It can also follow an injury to the jaw or face, sometimes long afterward, and conditions such as arthritis can increase the likelihood of jaw-joint problems. Some medications may influence symptoms for certain people. Beyond the jaw itself, TMJ can be associated with discomfort in the ears, neck and shoulders, and some people experience tinnitus, a ringing in the ears, alongside it. The variety of these connections is part of why TMJ can be tricky to recognise.

Managing TMJ

If you’re experiencing TMJ symptoms, several practical measures can help ease them. Applying heat or cold to the area can reduce pain and tension, and relaxation techniques like deep breathing or yoga can help where stress is a factor.

It also helps to avoid hard, chewy or sticky foods during flare-ups, to maintain good posture to reduce strain on the neck and jaw, and to be mindful of clenching or grinding. A night-time mouthguard may help limit grinding while you sleep. And if symptoms persist, booking an assessment lets us examine what’s going on and help shape a care plan suited to you. Get in touch with TMJ Therapy Centre to arrange a visit.