Stress can affect your body in more ways than you might realize. For instance, if you are currently suffering from jaw pain due to a TMJ disorder, there’s a chance that feelings of stress could be contributing to the problem. Below is a brief overview of the link between stress and TMJ disorder as well as the steps you can take to achieve lasting relief from your discomfort.
Understanding TMJ Disorder
A TMJ disorder is an issue with the temporomandibular joint (TMJ), which is the joint that connects the lower jaw to the rest of the skull. The TMJ is one of the most complex joints in the body, so it’s particularly prone to becoming overworked or injured. If this happens, it can lead to jaw pain, face pain, headaches, and other unpleasant symptoms.
The underlying cause of TMJ disorder isn’t always clear. However, there are several risk factors for the condition, including arthritis, gum chewing, and, of course, stress.
The Relationship Between TMJ Disorder and Stress
If you’re stressed, you may have a higher chance of developing bruxism. This condition can cause you to grind or clench your teeth without consciously meaning to, which exposes the jaw joints to an excessive amount of pressure. If bruxism is ignored for too long, it can easily lead to TMJ disorder or make it worse.
It should also be noted that people who are stressed sometimes bite their fingernails. Whenever you chew your nails, you put your jaw in an unusual position that places uneven pressure on the jaw joints, which can exacerbate TMJ-related symptoms.
What to Do About Stress and TMJ Disorder
If you’re trying to get TMJ disorder under control, it’s often helpful to take steps to lower your stress levels. Think about the things that cause you stress and consider whether there’s anything you can do to address them. It may also be a good idea to take up a stress-reducing activity such as yoga.
Additionally, you should speak to your dentist to explore your options for treating your TMJ disorder. If you have bruxism, you might benefit from wearing an occlusal splint at night. One of the benefits of this device is that it stops the upper and lower rows of teeth from making direct contact with each other. This can go a long way toward reducing the pressure that your jaw joints are exposed to as a result of grinding and clenching your teeth.
If you have a TMJ disorder that you suspect is related to stress, it’s important to have both issues addressed as soon as possible so that you can alleviate your pain and improve your quality of life.
About the Practice
At Costello & DeHart Dental Excellence, our dentists are fully committed to putting patients first while we take care of their smiles. Our practice in Arlington Heights was founded in 1966, and to this day we continue to deliver quality care to everyone who walks through our front doors. We offer multiple solutions for TMJ disorders, including personalized occlusal splints. If you need TMJ treatment to relieve the pain in your jaw, you can schedule an appointment with our team by visiting our website or calling (847) 259-1111.