The temporomandibular joints (TMJ) are the most complex joints in the human body. They are positioned at either side of the mouth to connect the jaw to the skull and allow it to move up and down, side to side, and forward and back. Unfortunately, having one’s TMJ out of balance can make it difficult to eat, speak, breathe, sleep, and make facial expressions. While temporomandibular joint disorders (TMD) can happen in all demographics, studies show that women may be more likely to develop these problems. Here’s how that can affect a woman’s health.
Who Is Affected by TMD?
About twelve percent of the world’s population and roughly 35 million Americans deal with TMD, and the majority of these people are women between the ages of nineteen and forty-nine. Women receive five times as many TMD diagnoses as men and tend to deal with more severe symptoms, including chronic, unremitting pain and significant restrictions of the jaw’s range of motion.
Why Are Women More Likely to Develop TMD?
Several factors may contribute to why women are more likely to develop TMD issues than men, including hormonal, anatomic, behavioral, and genetic differences between the sexes. TMD is often diagnosed in women when levels of estrogen and progesterone are higher during childbearing years. This may be because ligaments become more lax during the pre-ovulatory phase of the menstrual cycle, causing the jaw to move less efficiently and the TMJ to become irritated.
Men also have certain anatomical structures that provide a more stable foundation for the TMJ. For example, they have longer, wider, and thicker upper jaw bones and deeper sockets for the joints.
What Can I Do About TMD?
If you are living with chronic pain or restricted movement in your jaw, it may be because of TMD. Luckily, your dentist is trained and equipped to deal with these issues. While TMJ problems can cause chronic pain, frequent popping or clicking, headaches or migraines, and other symptoms, they may be able to be addressed through treatments like medication and physical therapy. Consulting with your dentist can determine if TMJ treatments may be able to address your concerns.
About the Author
Dr. Brandon Brunner earned his dental degree from the University of Minnesota School of Dentistry and has completed over four hundred hours of continuing education, including courses on TMJ treatment. He is a proud member of the American Dental Association, the Wisconsin Dental Association, and the American Academy of Dental Sleep Medicine. His office offers TMJ treatments and sleep therapy. If you are concerned about TMJ pain, contact his office online or dial (414) 775-2535.