The temporomandibular joint is situated between a person’s lower jaw, also called the mandible, and the skull’s temporal bone, which is situated at the sides and base of the skull, and supports the temple. It is the joint that controls and allows the mouth to open and close, much like the hinges of a door.
Many of the facial nerves also pass through this area of the skull, carrying impulses back and forth to the brain. If the temporomandibular joint becomes misaligned or damaged, these nerves may in turn become irritated, compressed or damaged, leading to painful episodes for the patient!
Stress often causes abnormal tension in a person’s muscles; many people will subconsciously grind their teeth or clench their jaw when under stress, putting additional strain on the nerves and muscles surrounding the temporomandibular joint. This in turn can lead to nerves and muscles becoming tense, pulling the joint away from its natural alignment.
A dentist can check for signs and causes of TMJ disorder, such as a misaligned bite, muscle tensions within the jaw or even structural issues that may directly affect the joint itself. Treatment of TMJ will vary according to the cause, from bite correction and alignment aids using orthodontics, to surgical procedures to repair damage or malformation.
Stress reduction treatments may help to alleviate symptoms of TMJ by helping the muscles in the upper body and skull to relax. This will allow the joint to resettle into its natural alignment, lessening the pain. A dentist may also prescribe night-guards to help alleviate the effects of clenching teeth, which many people do subconsciously, especially at night-time while asleep.
Speak to our experienced dental team serving San Antonio TX if you are experiencing pain in your jaw, especially if you are also feeling under stress; TMJ disorder is a common manifestation of stress but it is treatable with today’s array of dental techniques.
