Can TMJ Cause Tooth Pain?
TMJ flare-ups most commonly present themselves as jaw pain, stiff head and neck muscles, and headaches. This pain can last a few days or even up to a few weeks. The question is, can TMJ cause tooth pain, or is the tooth pain being caused by another underlying issue?
In this article, we will explore the relationship between TMJ disorders and tooth pain, and the various factors that may contribute to this relationship.
We will also provide tips for managing tooth pain related to TMJ disorders as well as managing the condition and preventing TMJ flare-ups.
Table of Contents
Can TMJ Cause Tooth Pain?
Dealing with TMJ disorders can cause a range of symptoms, including jaw pain, difficulty swallowing, and headaches. Can TMJ cause tooth pain? Many people with TMJ dysfunction also experience tooth pain, which can be a source of significant discomfort and distress.
Breaking Down TMJ Disorders
The temporomandibular joint (TMJ) is the joint that connects your jaw to your skull. It’s located in front of each ear and allows you to move your jaw up and down, side to side, and in a circular motion. When this joint becomes inflamed or damaged, it can cause pain and discomfort.
If you get TMJ flare-ups regularly, you may have a disorder called TMD. Temporomandibular Joint Disorder, or TMD, includes any dysfunction or disability of the temporomandibular joint. How TMJ is treated may depend on the causes of the pain.
Common Causes of TMJ Pain
The temporomandibular joint (TMJ) is an area of the body we use a lot. Certain factors can cause TMJ Pain. Can TMJ cause tooth pain? These common causes can also be a trigger for why you may feel TMJ-related tooth pain.
- Damaged joint cartilage caused by arthritis
- The jaw is out of alignment causing jaw disk erosion
- Improper alignment of the bite
- Trauma to the jaw and jaw joint
- Long-term grinding and clenching
- Chronically overworking the jaw with constant movement over time
- Degenerative joint diseases like Osteoarthritis and Rheumatoid Arthritis
Can TMJ Cause Tooth Pain?
There are several factors that may contribute to the relationship between TMJ dysfunction and tooth pain. One potential factor is muscle tension. When the muscles around the TMJ become tense, they can put pressure on the teeth, leading to tooth pain.
This muscle tension can be caused by a variety of factors, including stress, teeth grinding, and misaligned teeth.
Another factor that may answer ‘can TMJ cause tooth pain’ is the presence of inflammation in the TMJ. Inflammation in the TMJ can lead to pressure causing pain and discomfort in the jaw and teeth.
Finally, tooth pain may also be a symptom of another underlying dental issue, such as cavities or gum disease. These issues can be exacerbated by TMJ dysfunction, as the muscles around the TMJ may put additional pressure on the teeth.
Is it Pain from TMJ or Toothache? How to Tell the Difference
Can TMJ cause tooth pain? There are several ways to determine whether TMJ disorder is causing your tooth pain or if the pain is being caused by another underlying issue. Here are a few steps you can take:
Work With Your Dentist: Your dentist can help assess your mouth and teeth to determine the cause of your tooth pain. They may ask you about your medical and dental history and perform an examination of your mouth, teeth, and jaw. This may also include a series of dental x-rays.
Keep a Symptom Diary: It may be helpful to keep track of your symptoms, including the location and intensity of the tooth pain, as well as any other symptoms you are experiencing (e.g., jaw pain, headaches).
Consider Any Potential Triggers: Think about any potential triggers for your tooth pain, such as eating certain foods, stress levels, or engaging in certain activities. You may also want to write this in your symptom diary. This information can also be helpful for your healthcare provider or dentist in determining the cause of the pain.
At the end of the day, it’s always the best idea to give your dentist a call and see what they have to say. They might be able to give you an answer over the phone or schedule you for an appointment.
Can TMJ Cause Tooth Pain and How Can You Relieve it?
There are a few at-home treatments you can do to find fast relief and help support the jaw. Here are some effective at-home treatments for TMJ flare ups:
- Soft Food Diet: Avoid hard, crunchy foods that may make your tooth pain worse. Try chewing on the other side so that the tooth can calm down.
- Rest Your Jaw: Minimize jaw movements as best as possible. Try to cut back on talking and chewing.
- Apply Heat or Ice: Applying heat to the affected area can help to relax the muscles, while ice can help to reduce swelling and numb the pain.
- Take Over-the-Counter Pain Medication: Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) such as ibuprofen or naproxen can help to reduce inflammation and relieve pain. Always follow any medication instructions by the manufacturer and medical professional.
- Try Relaxation Techniques: Deep breathing, meditation, or other relaxation techniques can help to reduce stress and tension, which may be contributing to your TMJ flare-up.
Check out our article, 10 Proven Ways of Treating TMJ at Home for more tips on relieving pain from TMJ disorders.
If these self-care measures aren’t enough to relieve your symptoms, you may need to see a healthcare provider or dental professional for further evaluation and treatment.
Additional Resources on TMJ
TMJ pain is a very unique condition that can be triggered by various factors. To learn more on how you can protect your jaw and prevent pain, check out our resources below.
Take Home Smile Store
Visit our Take Home Smile store for educational brochures and other fun printables to help with oral hygiene. All products can be customized to fit your dental needs.
