First of all, TMJ disorder is a complex condition that affects the joint connecting your lower jaw to your skull. The temporomandibular joint, or TMJ, contains the joint socket and muscles used for chewing and speaking. Also referred to as TMJ syndrome or TMD, TMJ disorder happens when these joints become compromised, often as a result of trauma caused by an accident, teeth grinding, known as bruxism, or teeth clenching.
As a woman, you should be aware of the factors that can cause TMJ so you can take measures to avoid it. You may be more prone to developing TMJ disorder for several reasons:
Stress -- Teeth grinding or clenching is often the result of stress. Not that women necessarily have more stress than men, but it is a significant contributing factor to TMJ syndrome.
Medical Conditions -- Arthritis is also one of the causes of TMJ. As arthritis is more common in women, it would make sense that they would make up a larger percentage of TMJ cases related to arthritis. Women who suffer from fibromyalgia also often have TMJ pain.
Hormones -- Research suggests a link between estrogen, pain and jaw joints. Scientists have found estrogen receptors in the temporomandibular joints of baboons, while none were found in males. Studies have also shown that women who undergo hormone replacement therapy or take oral contraceptives are more likely to report jaw pain.
Joint Structure -- Some believe the collagen that holds the disk in place between the joint's ball and socket in women is different from men. This may cause more women to have dislocated disks, which can trigger TMJ.
Vitamin Deficiencies -- Several conditions linked to magnesium deficiencies have been found to be more common among women, including TMJ syndrome. There is a possibility that menstruation contributes to some vitamin deficiencies, which may explain why TMJ affects women in their childbearing years.
