| What
Causes TMJ Syndrome? Disorders
often result when the chewing muscles
and the TMJ work incorrectly.
When this occurs, the muscles
frequently cramp or go into spasm.
Sometimes the spasms become part of a
cycle that results in tissue damage,
pain and muscle tenderness.
Accidents, including
injuries to the jaw, neck, or head, or
even diseases such as arthritis may
cause TMJ disorders. The two
most common causes of TMJ syndrome,
however, are oral habits (grinding and
clenching) and improper bite.
Oral Habits
(Grinding and Clenching)
Sometimes patients
clench their teeth together
subconsciously. Or they may
actually grind (gnash) their teeth,
usually at night. The term for
this is bruxism. Clenching and
grinding make the chewing muscles
tired. That's what causes them
to go into spasm. And spasms
cause pain.
Improper Bite
Sometimes the teeth
don't come together properly when you
bite. The general term for this
is "malocclusion." An
improper bite may cause stress on your
chewing muscles, and the TMJ syndrome
prevails.
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