A few of the most common causes of TMJ disorder:
An injury to the jaw, face or neck can cause the malfunctioning of the jaw joint leading to TMJ disorder. These injuries are often part of a larger picture – for example, an automobile accident or blow to the jaw – and the TMJ injury emerges later.
General anesthesia and endoscopic procedures can also be significant contributing factors.
Genetic patterns and other triggering diseases, like arthritis, or diseases that affect musculature of the body, like Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome, often trigger TMJ disorder.
Stress can often be a factor in causing or worsening TMJ disorder.
Many people fall into the habit of “clenching” their teeth, and they don’t even realize they’re doing it. Others may grind (gnash) their teeth, most usually in their sleep. The term for this is bruxism. Clenching and grinding are an unnatural strain on the jaw muscles. That strain causes the muscles to go into spasm, a painful muscle contraction, and can trigger TMJ syndrome. Schedule an Appointment today.