The temporomandibular joint (TMJ) play an essential role in our day to day life. Activities like eating, speaking,making facial expressions are connected to this joint. This joint connects the jawbone to the skull, located at the sides of the head near each ear.

TMJ (Temporomandibular Joint) Disorder,is a disharmony between the way the jaw joint works in its most unstrained position and the way the teeth occlude during those movements.

There can be many factors that can lead to TMJ disorders. For example, San Diego TMJ Dentists The habitual clenching and grinding of the teeth can cause such problems, because grinding and clenching motions place extra stress on the cartilage that lines the joint. Chewing gum for hours at a time on a daily basis may have the same effect. Essentially, this repetitive  and continuous motion works the joint and does not allow for any recovery time.

An improper bite can also lead to TMJ disorders, causing the joint to work too hard. Likewise, habitually chewing on one side of the mouth may cause problems as well. Even poor posture may contribute to temporomandibular joint issues, straining the muscles of the face that support the action of the joint.

Stress, fatigue, and unhealthy dietary habits should be avoided as these are the key factors in causing TMJ.