TMJ disorder (TMD) and arthritis are incredibly common among adults in the United States. Both of these conditions are associated with pain and discomfort. At first, though, there might not seem to be any real connection between them. On the contrary, these two problems are closely linked in some cases! Continue reading this blog post to learn more.
What Is TMD?
The joints that control movement of your lower jaw are called the temporomandibular joints (TMJs). When they are healthy, you could easily take them for granted. However, when they become damaged, stressed, or inflamed, you could develop TMD, which can limit your jaw mobility, cause headaches, make it difficult for you to chew, and lead to a range of other symptoms.
What Types of Arthritis Are Associated with TMD?
The word “arthritis” does not refer to a single disease. Rather, it is an umbrella term that can apply to a number of conditions that affect joints throughout the body, including the TMJs. Research has found a significant link between different types of arthritis and TMD.
Osteoarthritis
Osteoarthritis is the most common type of arthritis. It is especially prevalent among older individuals, and it occurs as cartilage breaks down in the joints. As osteoarthritis worsens, it may affect the TMJs and cause jaw dysfunction and pain.
The relationship between osteoarthritis and TMD is a two-way street. There is evidence to suggest that the continual strain on the jaw joints caused by TMD may contribute to the development of osteoarthritis or cause it to worsen.
Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA)
RA is an autoimmune condition that causes chronic joint inflammation. A 2007 study found that 93% of participants with RA had TMD symptoms or jawbone destruction, with severity of these problems often matching the severity of their RA.
Psoriatic Arthritis (PsA)
PsA, a type of arthritis that is linked to skin psoriasis, causes joint inflammation and increases the risk of TMD symptoms like teeth grinding, jaw noises, and difficulty opening the jaw. If untreated, it may lead to permanent jaw damage.
Other Types of Arthritis
Other arthritis forms, such as traumatic arthritis from injuries and infectious arthritis that starts with a joint infection, can also cause long-term jaw pain, inflammation, and limited movement.
What Can You Do?
Here are a few actionable steps that may protect your TMJs from arthritis-related pain and damage:
- Work with your doctor to manage arthritis.
- Consult a dentist to learn about treatment options for TMJ disorder.
- Avoid unnecessary strain on your jaw joints. You might have to eat a soft diet or work to reduce the amount of tension and stress in your life.
TMD and arthritis can be painful and damaging! Watch out for symptoms of these conditions and take practical measures to manage them.
Meet the Practice
Dr. Brandon Brunner is a highly accomplished TMJ dentist and a proud member of the American Academy of Orofacial Pain. He has already helped countless people find relief from their TMD symptoms via conservative and convenient treatments. If you are concerned about the health of your jaw joints, Dr. Brunner and our team would be pleased to consult with you. Contact our Wauwatosa office at 414-966-7639.