In Part 1, we talked about how to recognize a TMJ disorder. Now let's get into something I get asked about constantly: what actually causes it?
Once you know the cause, you'll also understand what might be making it worse, often without realizing it.
TMJ Disorder Rarely Has a Single Cause
As an Oral & Maxillofacial Surgeon, I see most cases come down to a few key causes. TMJ disorder doesn't usually have a single clear cause, and that's what makes it so easy to miss or misdiagnose.
The Most Common Causes of TMJ Disorder
The most common causes I see are:
Some people grind during their sleep and have no idea until the pain starts. For other patients, it's simply years of wear and tear.
The TMJ is one of the most frequently used joints in the body. Over time, that adds up.
What Makes TMJ Disorder Worse?
Stress is a significant factor. When people are stressed, they clench their jaw, often unconsciously, during the day or while sleeping.
That sustained muscle tension builds up and aggravates the joint.
Other things that can make TMJ symptoms worse include:
Why Early Warning Signs Matter
The patients who come to us at SameDay with the most severe cases are usually the ones who had warning signs months earlier and pushed through them.
The earlier we identify what's driving the problem, the more options we have and the more conservative the treatment can be.
In Part 3, I'll cover what happens when non-surgical treatment isn't enough, and when a procedure called TMJ arthrocentesis becomes the right call.
If any of this sounds familiar, call 04 315 8300 and come and see us at SameDay.
Dr. Indraniil Roy
BDS, MDS, MSc (Germany)
Specialist Oral & Maxillofacial Surgeon
Specialist Oral & Maxillofacial Surgeon
