What causes TMJ?

If you’re dealing with the pain caused by temporomandibular joint disorder (often called TMJ or TMD), you’re desperate to discover what causes TMJ (and how you can how you can find relief.)

There’s no single cause for temporomandibular joint disorder. A variety of factors, including stress, arthritis, repetitive motion, and injury can result in TMJ symptoms.

TMJ is not the result of poor oral hygiene. Even those with the most rigorous brushing and flossing regimen can develop TMJ. The cause of TMJ pain is often structural problems with your jaw, including issues with the surrounding muscles, cushioning disks, or actual temporomandibular joint. 

 An initial TMJ injury is often caused by trauma, injury, or even poor posture. Once the joint is damaged, a variety of factors can cause TMD flareups.

What factors contribute to TMJ symptoms flareups?

Precipitating factors can range from genetic and structural issues to tooth grinding, poor posture, and injury. 

We can’t point to one factor as the exact cause of TMJ. However, most cases are related to stress which leads to overuse or incorrect use of the jaw. Two of the most common culprits are teeth clenching and teeth grinding (also referred to as bruxing).  Muscle relaxants are frequently used to prevent these behaviors, but are only a temporary fix.

If you grind your teeth, your masseter muscle (the largest muscle in your jaw) works even while you rest. Such repetitive movement can irritate the TMJ and aggravate or bring on TMD symptoms just as jaw pain or ear pain.

tmj-causes

What exactly is my temporomandibular joint?

Your temporomandibular joint attaches your jaw to your skull and serves as a giant hinge. This joint is in charge of jaw movement. Responsible for your ability to eat, drink, and talk, this joint has a critical job. When things go smoothly, you don’t give your jaws a second thought. However, when things go wrong, you’re left with searing jaw pain, earaches, headaches, pain, or difficulty chewing.

What can I do about my TMJ? (TMJ Treatment, TMD Diagnosis, etc.)

To a degree, the treatment plan depends on the cause and severity of your case.

TMJ home treatment is often effective for pain relief and TMJ symptom management. For mild TMD, treatments include relaxation exercises, heat/cold therapy, jaw exercises, and an NSAID (non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug) pain medications like ibuprofen and aspirin. 

However, in more severe cases, TMJ pain treatment by a dentist can bring long-term relief for severe TMJ pain. 

Common TMD treatments rarely control the headaches, facial pain, and locking of the jaw associated with temporomandibular disorders, making TMJ difficult to treat.

Allure Dental is thrilled to offer Botox treatments for TMJ. Botox provides a conservative, non-surgical approach to treating the discomfort associated with TMD. A botox injection works as a muscle relaxant blocking the contraction of jaw muscles and eliminating the pain caused by overactive muscles. Most patients feel initial relief within a few days and experience an end to their TMD suffering within a week of treatment. 

Discover how Botox treatments can provide a safe, simple solution to treating your TMJ. Dr. Eversgerd is a member of the American Academy of Facial Esthetics and has undergone specialized training in the use of Botox.

After Hours Contact Form






Reviews From Our Wonderful Patients

  • Kenzie M. Avatar

    I have gone to Dr. E for two years. Not only is she great but so are her hygienists. They... read more

    Kenzie M. 5/16/2019
    Endless S. Avatar

    So my experience began with an awful toothache and a recommendation by a friend to see Dr Eversgard, I was... read more

    Endless S. 9/28/2019
    Mary A. Avatar

    My experience with Allure Dental was wonderful. I was always afraid to go to the dentist. I always would jump... read more

    Mary A. 1/28/2020
  • Toni W. Avatar

    I need so much work done and feel like I have found the perfect place to get the best quality... read more

    Toni W. 7/03/2019
    Dasha S. Avatar

    When i went in today everyone & yes everyone, was so sweet & friendly! Honestly i’m glad that i was... read more

    Dasha S. 10/16/2019
    Jill D. Avatar

    Love this office!! Everyone is so kind and they truly aim to make your visit comfortable. Trust me when I... read more

    Jill D. 10/02/2019
  • Mike R. Avatar

    Had to have a major dental procedure done. The procedure was completely pain free. If you have anxiety... read more

    Mike R. 9/14/2019
    ashiebeth c. Avatar

    I am so happy with my experience today at Allure! My son experienced tooth pain over the weekend and Dr... read more

    ashiebeth c. 11/06/2019
    jessie C. Avatar

    Great office! Very professional. My two sons have not enjoyed other dentist offices. The both commented on how much the... read more

    jessie C. 3/13/2020
  • Catherine W. Avatar

    5 star rating Dr E. and the team at Allure Dental are seriously the dream team and are my angels! I've been so... read more

    Catherine W. 8/30/2019
    Martin S. Avatar

    After getting a new crown, in record time, they gave me potato soup before I left! Stuck it in the... read more

    Martin S. 8/30/2019
    Aparna S. Avatar

    We had a great experience. I took my kids to see Dr E and every step was easy and made... read more

    Aparna S. 9/26/2019

985.951.2220

1901 Hwy 190 Suite 14 Mandeville, LA 70448

[email protected]