Temporomandibular disorders (TMDs) affect millions of people worldwide and cause pain and dysfunction in the jaw joint and surrounding muscles. While various factors contribute to TMD, stress has been considered a significant player in its development. When we hear about ' stress’, we think about the emotional and psychological impacts. 

 

But that’s not the end. Suffering from stress for a long time may have a physical impact and lead to jaw pain and mobility restrictions. According to the American Academy of Orofacial Pain, in up to 75% of cases, people experience symptoms of TMJ TMD, and muscle disorders in their lifetime. 

 

Understanding TMJ Disorder 

Temporomandibular joint disorders are a wide range of conditions that affect both the jaw joint and surrounding muscles. There are several causes of TMJ TMD, including teeth grinding, jaw injury, malocclusion, arthritis in the jaw joint, and stress. You may experience several symptoms, such as 

 

  • Pain in the jaw joint, shoulders, and neck. 
  • Tenderness in the face
  • Migraines 
  • Headaches 
  • Toothache 
  • TinnitusEarache 
  • Jaw stiffness 
  • Facial pain 

 

How Does Stress Affect TMJ Disorder? 

It’s true that stress is not solely responsible for TMD, but studies show that this increases the symptoms and develops the condition more quickly. A study published in the Journal of Oral Rehabilitation found that individuals with high stress levels were 3.5 times more likely to develop TMD compared to those with low stress levels. 

 

During stress, our jaw and surrounding muscles go through a lot of pressure, which controls the jaw movement. As a result, you can experience misalignment, inflammation, and lasting pain due to constant pressure. With poor posture and bad dental habits, your TMD issues become severe. 

 

How Can You Reduce Stress for TMJ Relief?

Since stress has a long-term impact on our bodies, it’s important to identify the causes of stress and to manage and prevent TMJ symptoms. For a TMJ TMD diagnosis, you must inform the doctor about your previous medical history and go through a physical examination. 

 

Follow Stress Reduction and Relaxation Techniques 

Long-term stress can lead to several health problems. If you don’t manage the issues on time, you may experience obesity, heart disease, depression, and high blood pressure. Following these techniques will help you better cope with TMD symptoms. 

 

Physical Activity

Regular physical activity is good for our health. Doctors recommend continuing at least 150 minutes of physical activity every day to lower stress and other symptoms. Whether you do yoga, walk, or follow any fitness routine, such physical activity releases endorphins to enhance your mood and lower stress. 

 

Get in Touch with Us! 

Understanding the intricate relationship between stress and TMD is crucial for effective patient care. Patients and healthcare providers working together can develop effective strategies to manage TMD and reduce its impact on daily life. However, if you want to book an appointment with an expert or apply for neuromuscular dentistry courses, contact us at ICCMO.