{"id":491,"date":"2026-07-25T00:33:29","date_gmt":"2026-07-25T00:33:29","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.cowelldental.com\/blog\/?p=491"},"modified":"2026-07-25T00:33:30","modified_gmt":"2026-07-25T00:33:30","slug":"stress-and-tmj","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.cowelldental.com\/blog\/2026\/07\/25\/stress-and-tmj\/","title":{"rendered":"How Does Stress Contribute to TMJ Disorder?"},"content":{"rendered":"
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The temporomandibular joint (TMJ) is one of the most complex joints in the entire body. This means that there is a lot that can go wrong in this area. When this occurs, it is called \u201ctemporomandibular joint disfunction,\u201d or TMD. If you are constantly experiencing morning headaches, lockjaw, jaw pain, earaches, or jaw clicking, you might have TMD<\/a>. Something that could make these symptoms worse is stress. Continue reading to learn more about the connection and how it can be addressed.<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n

What Is the Connection Between TMD and Stress?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Do you bite your nails or grind your teeth when you are frustrated? This is a common habit, as it can be a stress response. However, doing this frequently can put excessive strain on your jaw joints, even forcing the joint out of alignment or exacerbating existing TMJ disorder. This can worsen both your stress and jaw pain in the long run. In addition to negatively impacting the jaw, constant clenching and grinding can result in chips, cracks, and wearing of the teeth.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

How Can My Dentist Help?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

If you think that you may have TMJ disorder, you should reach out to your dentist to get the care you need. There are various treatments available to help bring patients relief. Here are two common treatment options.<\/p>\n\n\n\n