{"id":184,"date":"2025-03-11T20:39:53","date_gmt":"2025-03-11T20:39:53","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.sleepbetterdentistry.com\/blog\/?p=184"},"modified":"2025-04-29T20:43:55","modified_gmt":"2025-04-29T20:43:55","slug":"what-causes-tmj-disorder-and-how-is-it-treated","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.sleepbetterdentistry.com\/blog\/?p=184","title":{"rendered":"What Is TMJ Disorder & How Is It Treated?"},"content":{"rendered":"
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When most of us think about our oral health, our teeth and gums come to mind first \u2013 however, our jaws are just as important! Not only do they help to secure your teeth in place, but they also allow you to eat, speak, and smile your way through life. This is why as soon as an issue arises, like TMJ disorder, treatment is in your best interest. Continue reading to learn a little more about TMJ disorder<\/a>, what causes it, and how your dentist might be able to help!<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n

What Exactly Is TMJ Disorder?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

TMJ disorder, sometimes simply called \u201cTMD\u201d, refers to a collection of conditions that negatively impact the temporomandibular joints, which are the two joints responsible for connecting your jawbones to the rest of your skull. These joints act as sliding hinges, helping to grant your mouth a full range of impressive motion.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

However, due to their complex nature and heavy responsibility, these joints are unfortunately susceptible to problems that impact their movement and, in turn, cause jaw pain. Likewise, the surrounding muscles and ligaments that assist with this movement can also become affected.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

What Causes TMD?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

TMD can prove detrimental to your overall quality of life when left unaddressed; however, it can also be hard to determine its exact cause. It can be linked to conditions like bruxism, sleep apnea, or even jaw misalignment. Likewise, it might also be the result of a physical injury to the face. It\u2019s also very difficult to self-diagnose, since jaw pain can often be related to a variety of different factors. However, some of the most common symptoms associated with TMD include:<\/p>\n\n\n\n