Temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders can be the result of stress, as it can trigger muscle tension that can lead to bruxism, commonly called teeth grinding. Grinding teeth puts additional strain on your TMJ, leading to symptoms like an aching jaw, a clicking jaw, or difficulty closing or opening the mouth. TMJ disorders can also be caused by factors like misaligned teeth, arthritis, and trauma to the jaw.
The TMJ is a pair of sliding hinge-like joints that connect the lower jaw and the rest of the skull. Stress causes the body to enter fight-or-flight mode. The heart rate goes up, muscles tighten, and the mind races. This causes many people to unconsciously clench their jaw, especially during sleep. Over time, this constant pressure can inflame the TMJ, causing pain, inflammation, and limiting the person’s ability to open and close their mouth comfortably.
A 2019 study published in BMC Oral Health found a statistically significant association between TMJ disorders and the signs of anxiety, depression, and somatization. Noticing any listed symptoms during high-stress periods might be the TMJ trying to send a message.
Ignoring stress can lead to chronic jaw disorders, worn tooth enamel, and even migraines. The patient can reduce the overuse of their jaw muscles and protect their teeth by practicing stress-management techniques, such as deep-breathing exercises, yoga, or meditation, to help them relax and decrease involuntary clenching.
They should also seek professional treatment for their TMJ disorder. A dentist can provide a custom-fitted night guard that keeps the teeth slightly apart while the patient sleeps, thereby reducing pressure on their TMJ and teeth.
Physical therapy and gentle jaw-stretching exercises can help improve jaw flexibility, alleviating pain. Patients with severe teeth grinding issues might be referred to mental health professionals for cognitive behavioral therapy.
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Stress doesn’t just live in your head; it can manifest physically in your jaw, leading to a TMJ disorder. Start by tracking any pain episodes and writing down your symptoms and any stressful things that you are dealing with. This information will help your dentist pinpoint patterns and recommend treatments. TMJ disorders may be reversible with early intervention, and potential solutions are as simple as spending 10 minutes performing relaxation exercises before bed or wearing a custom night guard provided by a dentist.
Do not wait for stress to worsen your TMJ disorder. Schedule an appointment with our dentist to have your jaw assessed and receive a personalized treatment recommendation. For example, we provide stress management guidance and custom oral appliances for TMJ disorders.
Request an appointment or call Elliott Ostro, DMD at 212-847-3833 for an appointment in our New York office.
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