TMJ Jaw Pain

Are You Experiencing TMJ Jaw Pain?

Jaw pain is usually associated with pain found in the Temporal Mandibular Joint(TMJ). Generally, the cause of jaw pain can be broken down into two categories, either a macro trauma, which usually results from a single injury such as whiplash experienced in a car wreck or a micro-trauma which is a result of repetitive stress to both the hard and soft tissues in the TMJ over time. The term Temporal Mandibular Dysfunction or Disorder (TMD) is used to describe a joint that is experiencing a trauma.

It is most common for our office to treat those experiencing micro traumas. What we have found is that many of these micro traumas are primarily the result of nocturnal bruxism. Bruxism is considered a medical problem and is referred to as a Rhythmic Movement Disorder such as Restless Leg Syndrome and both can affect the sleep of a person. When a person purposefully “clenches” their teeth during the day the amount of pressure created has been measured and is usually 16 to 17 thousand pounds. However nocturnal bruxism has been measured upwards to 57,000 to 58,000 pounds, nearly 3 1/2 to 4 times greater. Having this understanding gives greater insight into the damage that is developed at night. (Oekson J., ed: Management of Temporomandibular Disorders and Occlusion. 6th ed.)

These kinds of pressures will cause harm not only to our teeth but to our jaw joints as well. If one experiences this night after night, month after month TMJ issues will occur and manifest themselves as “jaw pain.”

We Can Help Relieve Pain in Your Jaw

If you’re experiencing jaw pain, don’t suffer in silence. Our experienced team at the TMJ & Sleep Therapy Centre of Arizona is here to help you find relief and improve your quality of life. Don’t hesitate to reach out to us today to set up an appointment. We’re dedicated to providing personalized care and solutions tailored to your needs. Take the first step towards a pain-free future – Contact Us Now. Your comfort is our priority.