A Quick Look At Tmj-related Problems In Men Vs. Women

By Author: Greg Riley
Total Articles: 55
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Johns Hopkins Medicine defines temporomandibular disorders (commonly referred to as TMD) as “disorders of the jaw muscles, temporomandibular joints, and the nerves associated with chronic facial pain.” While extensive research is still underway on the exact causes, studies have reported an important finding: women are diagnosed five times more frequently than men. To learn the current statistics, a few common culprits, and symptoms to look out for, keep reading!
The Current Statistics on TMJ-Related Problems
It’s currently estimated that around 35 million people in the United States have TMD. While both men and women can develop this condition, the majority of people seeking care are women between the ages of 19 and 49. Furthermore, women are more likely (nine times more likely, to be exact) to experience severe symptoms, like major limitations in jaw movement and chronic jaw pain.
3 Potential Reasons for the Noteworthy Difference
Since women are more likely to be diagnosed and have more severe symptoms, researchers naturally asked an important question: Why? Throughout the years, they’ve discovered ...
... a few potential causes, including the below differences between men and women:
• Hormonal – Since women are often diagnosed during childbearing years, it’s possible that the increased levels of estrogen and progesterone play a role.
• Anatomical – In addition to being shorter and thicker, the female mandible is more obtuse than males.
• Behavioral – Stress (the internalization of stress, specifically) can result in clenching, grinding, and poor breathing habits, all of which can play a role in TMD.
7 Common Symptoms to Look Out For
Naturally, one of the first steps toward TMJ therapy is keeping an eye out for the common symptoms. That way, you can schedule an appointment with your dentist when they first arise. With this in mind, take note of:
• Persistent jaw soreness (especially in the morning or late afternoon)
• Headaches
• Pain spreading behind the eyes, in the face, and in your shoulder, neck, or back
• Earaches or ringing in the ears that isn’t from an infection
• Popping or clicking of your jaw
• Restricted jaw or mouth movement
• Chronic teeth grinding or clenching
Your TMJ Treatment Options
TMJ therapy can refer to a number of different treatments. After all, the best solution for you will depend on several important factors, like the symptoms you’re experiencing and their severity. Here are a few common treatment options:
• Occlusal splints – An oral appliance made to create a comfortable resting position for your jaw, alleviating symptoms in the process.
• Occlusal adjustments – This involves altering aspects of your bite to form occlusion that doesn’t result in aggravation.
• BOTOX® - This injection can relax muscles in the head and neck, minimizing jaw pain, headaches, and other common symptoms.
If you’re interested in learning more about TMJ therapy or you’re exhibiting one of the above symptoms and would like to schedule a consultation, don’t hesitate to visit my website: https://www.junobeachsmiles.com/.