The temporomandibular joint (TMJ) is the joint that connects your lower jaw to your skull. An issue with this joint can lead to discomfort and can impact your chewing, talking, and the overall quality of your life. The mouth is the gateway for eating, breathing, and talking, which are three things we do on a daily basis. The TMJ is involved in all of those activities.
What Causes a TMJ Issue?
There are many things can cause TMJ issues or a temporomandibular joint disorder (TMD). Stress and bad habits are commonly associated with TMJ issues because it means there may be frequent teeth clenching or grinding. Discomfort related to TMJ can be caused by joint erosion, arthritic, and an uneven jaw at birth, aside from the typical teeth grinding and clenching.
Lifestlyle Choices Related to TMD
There are behaviors and health choices that can lead to a greater risk for TMD or TMJ related issues. Poor posture can lead to jaw issues because it can strain the face and the neck. Making a habit to sit up and stand straight can decrease your risk for TMJ related issues. Stress, although not a choice, may not be something that is coped with well. Stress can lead to teeth grinding and clenching. Finding appropriate ways to de-stress can have lasting benefits on your health. Poor diet effects the mouth, teeth, and jaw. Lack of sleep can be another factor, because not sleeping enough means you are using your jaw more frequently, and it may also mean you are experiencing higher stress levels. Finally, braces can impact the health of your jaw.
Paying attention to healthy lifestyle choices can increase the health of your jaw, teeth, and ultimately the entire body. If you have questions about how you can increase your oral health, or lower your risk for TMJ related issues, please don't hesitate to give our office a call.
Dental Blog | Madison Oral Surgery and Dental Implants The doctors at Madison Oral Surgery and Dental Implants have provided this blog to help our patients and the community. We hope our blog will cover the many topics that you and your family may be interested in. Madison Oral Surgery & Dental Implants, 2921 Landmark Place, Suite 100, Madison, WI 53713 ~ (608) 960-7650 ~ madisonoralsurgeons.com ~ 12/6/2023 ~ Related Terms: Oral Surgeon, Dental Implants, All on 4, Wisdom Teeth Extractions
The temporomandibular joint (TMJ) is the joint that connects your lower jaw to your skull. An issue with this joint can lead to discomfort and can impact your chewing, talking, and the overall quality of your life. The mouth is the gateway for eating, breathing, and talking, which are three things we do on a daily basis. The TMJ is involved in all of those activities.