Do you wake up in the morning with a locked jaw? Perhaps you have noticed that your jaw becomes stuck or locks in place when you eat, yawn, or even talk. If so, you may be struggling with a condition called temporomandibular joint disorder (TMJ).
TMJ can make it difficult to perform basic daily functions, and affects an estimated 10 million Americans. One of the leading causes of TMJ is poor dental health. Improper orhips dental health can lead to an arthritic condition which causes the jaw to lock. It’s important to understand the causes of TMJ in order to properly treat and prevent it.
What Causes a Locking Jaw?
In general, TMJ refers to a group of musculoskeletal conditions that affect the jaw, and is often caused by trauma, excessive stress, bruxism, or osteoarthritis. The temporomandibular joint, or jaw joint is particularly susceptible to arthritis due to its complex structure of muscles, ligaments, tendons, and cartilage.
When the disc in the temporomandibular joint bone slips or is moved out of its proper position, it can lead to pain, tenderness, clicking, or even a locking jaw. If a disc or the jawbone wears unevenly, the cartilage can deteriorate, causing the jaw to lock in place.
Poor Dental Health and TMJ
Poor dental health can contribute to TMJ in a number of ways. If you grind or clench your teeth while awake or during sleep, it can place excessive stress on the joints and muscles, causing long-term damage. Missing, chipped, or broken teeth, and misaligned teeth can also lead to TMJ by causing the jaw to shift out of its normal position.
Inflammation can occur in the jaw joint from poor dental health. Gum disease, an untreated cavity or tooth infection, and poor dental hygiene can lead to inflammation, which if left untreated can lead to joint damage and a locking jaw.
How to Prevent and Treat a Grinding Jaw
Preventing and treating a grinding jaw starts with good dental hygiene. Brush and floss your teeth twice a day, and schedule regular check-ups with your dentist. Stress management can prevent bruxism, the conscious and unconscious habit of grinding and clenching teeth. Increased physical activity, yoga, and mindfulness can help to manage stress levels, and reduce teeth grinding.
If you are diagnosed with TMJ, treatment may include massaging and stretching the muscles, an ice pack or moist heat applied to the jaw, and over-the-counter pain relief medication. At-home physical therapy programs, such as exercise designed to improve joint health, can be beneficial for some individuals.
In more severe cases, dentists may recommend a long-term treatment plan, such as the use of a dental splint, or bite plate which helps to remove the stress placed on the jaw. Over-the-counter and prescription dental splints can also be used to treat TMJ by promoting proper jaw alignment and preventing teeth grinding.
Addressing the root cause of TMJ, such as poor dental health, is the best strategy for long-term relief. Continue with your at-home dental care routine, and pay attention to your diet and stress levels. If you experience jaw pain, contact your dentist to address problem before it becomes worse. By taking care of your overall dental health, you can prevent and treat TMJ, as well as enhance your overall health and well-being.
Conclusion
Poor dental health can contribute to a locking jaw. Improper dental hygiene, stress, bruxism, missing, chipped, or broken teeth, and poor teeth alignment can lead to TMJ by causing the jaw to shift out of its normal position, and can also lead to inflammation. If you are struggling with a lockjaw or any associated TMJ symptoms, visit your dentist for a diagnosis and proper treatment plan. Taking care of your dental health can help to prevent and treat TMJ, and improve your overall health.
