Causes of
TMJ Disorder
Learn what can cause TMJ disorder, the risk factors that can contribute to developing it, and what you can do to treat it.
What Causes TMJ Disorder?
The temporomandibular joint is what allows the jaw to open and close. Like other joints, there is a disk of cartilage that prevents bone-on-bone contact. But unlike other joints, the temporomandibular joint is subject to a great deal of movement: it allows the jaw to open and close, slide forward and backward, and even move laterally side to side.
TMJ disorder, also known as TMD, occurs when the cartilage is damaged, erodes or moves out of its proper placement within the joint, or when the joint is somehow damaged. A number of factors can increase the risk of developing TMD or increase its severity.
Factors That Increase Risk
There are several risk factors that can increase the likelihood that you develop TMJ disorder or may increase its severity.
Jaw Injury
Damage or dislodging of cartilage disksOsteoarthritis
Cartilage breakdown in the jaw jointRheumatoid Arthritis
Autoimmune inflammation of the jointsTeeth Grinding
Overstimulation of the TMJ jointsYour First Appointment with Dr. Krish
With a background in dentistry, Dr. Krish branched out into treating TMJ and sleep disorders after coping with her own challenges as a patient. After suffering for far too long with getting good sleep and issues with jaw pain, she learned the proper care and techniques to help people who were also suffering, and eventually decided to devote all her time to exclusively treating TMD, Craniofacial Pain, and sleep disorders.
- Comprehensive intake forms to understand underlying issues
- Measurements and photos of the head, jaw, and neck
- Motor reflex testing and physical exam
- 3D imaging (CBCT) scan if necessary for treatment planning
- Accurate diagnosis and effective treatment plan
TMJ Disorder Treatments
At the TMJ & Sleep Therapy Centre of North Texas, we offer several effective, non-surgical treatment options to relieve TMJ pain and restore proper jaw function.
SPG Blocks
Non-invasive inhaled relief for facial and head painCold Laser Therapy
Reduces inflammation and accelerates healingTrigger Point Injections
Targeted numbing for instant pain reliefOral Appliances
Custom-fitted devices for jaw repositioning
Start with a Simple TMJ and Sleep Screening
Do You Have TMJ?
Take our quick 2-minute assessment to find out if your symptoms may be related to TMJ disorder. Take TMJ Quiz
Sleep Apnea Risk?
Discover if your snoring, fatigue, or restless sleep could indicate sleep apnea with this brief screening. Take Sleep Quiz
"After years of chronic migraines and jaw pain, I finally found answers here. The team took the time to truly understand my condition. Three months into treatment, my headaches have virtually disappeared. I wish I had found them sooner."
"After years of chronic migraines and jaw pain, I finally found answers here. The team took the time to truly understand my condition. Three months into treatment, my headaches have virtually disappeared. I wish I had found them sooner."
