Due to the complexity of the TMJ, it is often difficult to determine the exact cause. The condition can develop from an injury to the jaw, TMJ, head muscles or neck muscles. Often, these injuries are caused by a jarring blow or whiplash.

Other possible causes of TMD include:

Misaligned teeth
Pressure on the TMJ caused by grinding or clenching your teeth
Dislocation of the disk separating the ball and socket of the TMJ
Damage to the cartilage of the TMJ caused by arthritis
Stress which may result in a tightening of the facial and jaw muscles
Allergies and breathing problems
Missing teeth

Do You Need Relief from TMJ Symptoms?

TMD can be extremely painful. While this pain may be short-lived, it is possible for it to become chronic, lasting for many years and causing degenerative problems if left untreated. Common TMJ symptoms include:

Jaw pain
Ear pain
Difficulty chewing
Tinnitus
Facial pain
Locking of the jaw
Headaches
Uneven bite
Clicking, popping or grating sound in the jaw joint when opening your mouth or chewing
Limited mobility in the mouth
Uncomfortable bite
Facial swelling
Toothaches – a dull ache that affects several teeth in a concentrated area
Neck pain
Dizziness
Numbness and tingling

Worn teeth are not normal, but can be a common symptom of TMJ. As a result of TMD, you may suffer from cracked, loose, missing, chipped or broken teeth.

TMJ Causes