TMJ stands for temporomandibular joint, which is the joint connecting the jawbone to the skull. This joint is responsible for the movement of the jaw, allowing you to talk, chew, and yawn. Temporomandibular joint disorder (TMD) is a condition in which this joint is not functioning correctly. Here, we’ll take a closer look at the disorder and the symptoms it can cause.
Can TMJ Disorder Cause Tooth Pain?
If you suffer from TMD, you may experience a range of symptoms, including pain or tenderness in the face, jaw, or neck, difficulty opening or closing the mouth, clicking or popping sounds when opening the mouth, and headaches. But, can TMD also cause tooth pain? Here, we'll explore the effects of TMJ on oral health and how it can affect your teeth.
Effects of TMJ Disorder on Oral Health
TMJ disorder can lead to several oral health problems. When the jaw joint is not functioning correctly, it can put pressure on the surrounding nerves and muscles, causing pain and discomfort. Additionally, TMJ can cause the jaw to shift out of alignment, leading to bite issues that can cause further pain and discomfort.
How TMJ Disorder Affects Teeth
When the teeth become misaligned from TMD, the resulting bite issues can cause pain and discomfort in the teeth and gums. Additionally, when people with TMD grind their teeth, it can wear them down unevenly, leading to further pain and other dental problems.
Tooth Decay and TMJ Disorder
When you have TMJ disorder, it can be challenging to keep your teeth clean and healthy. The pain and discomfort associated with the condition can make it difficult to brush and floss regularly, leading to tooth decay and other dental issues.
Preventing TMJ Tooth Pain
If you're experiencing tooth pain due to TMD, there are some lifestyle changes and dental care tips that can help prevent it.
Lifestyle Changes
- Avoid chewing gum or eating hard, crunchy foods that can strain your jaw muscles
- Practice stress-reducing techniques like meditation or yoga to reduce tension in your jaw
- Maintain good posture to prevent neck and shoulder tension
Dental Care Tips
- Wear a mouthguard at night to prevent teeth grinding and clenching
- Practice good oral hygiene to prevent tooth decay and gum disease, which can exacerbate TMJ symptoms
- Consider orthodontic treatment to correct misaligned teeth that can contribute to TMJ
Expert TMJ Treatment at Admira Dentistry
If you’re experiencing symptoms of TMJ disorder, Dr. Julio Sixto and our expert team at Admira Dentistry can help. Our dental professionals are highly experienced in diagnosing and treating TMD, and they’ll do everything they can to alleviate any symptoms you’re experiencing. If you’re ready to schedule an exam, just give our office a call today.
