A disorder of the temporomandibular joint, or TMD, can come in many forms. In general, TMD’s represent a problem with the joint of the jawbone or the muscles that are used to move your jaw. In many cases, the root cause is unclear. However, some of the most common causes include the following:
- An impact or similar injury sustained around the area of the jaw, head, or neck may result in a TMD.
- Excessive clenching or grinding puts unnecessary stress on your jaw muscles and causes TMD.
- Osteoarthritis or rheumatoid arthritis in the jaw can manifest itself as a TMD.
- Some diseases, like oral cancer or gingivitis, can affect the way your jaw fits into your skull and cause TMD.
- Women, particularly those between the age of twenty and forty, appear to be most likely to develop TMD. The reasons for this are unknown.
Should you find yourself suffering from TMD, Bella Dental can help. Talk to our Federal Way dentistry clinic to find the cause behind your disorder and explore your treatment options.
