If you’ve been experiencing jaw pain, headaches, or even clicking or popping in your jaw, you might be wondering what’s causing these symptoms. A common, yet often overlooked, cause of jaw pain is stress. At Dr. Priya Mistry’s dental practice in Vancouver, WA, we understand the complex relationship between stress and jaw pain, and we’re here to help you get the relief you need.
Stress and Its Impact on Your Jaw
When you’re stressed, your body naturally responds with muscle tension. This tension can affect various parts of your body, including your jaw. This is particularly true for your temporomandibular joint (TMJ), which connects your jawbone to your skull. When you’re under stress, you may unknowingly clench your jaw or grind your teeth, a condition known as bruxism.
Bruxism can lead to a range of symptoms, including:
- Jaw pain or tenderness
- Headaches, particularly in the temples
- Clicking, popping, or grating sounds when you move your jaw
- Difficulty opening your mouth fully
- Tooth sensitivity or wear
Over time, chronic stress and bruxism can lead to more severe issues, such as TMJ disorder, which can cause long-lasting pain and discomfort.
How Stress Affects the TMJ
The TMJ is a delicate and complex joint that can be easily affected by stress. When you clench or grind your teeth, the muscles surrounding the joint tighten, which can lead to inflammation, pain, and dysfunction. As the stress builds, the muscles around your jaw become increasingly fatigued, which can worsen the pain and discomfort you feel.
How Dr. Priya Mistry Can Help
At Dr. Priya Mistry’s practice, we focus on treating jaw pain caused by stress, especially through her targeted TMJ therapy protocol. Dr. Mistry’s approach involves a combination of treatments tailored specifically to your needs, including the use of a TMJ Orthotic.
- TMJ Orthotic: Unlike traditional night guards, a TMJ orthotic is designed to align and reposition your jaw properly, addressing the root cause of your TMJ dysfunction. It helps to balance the muscles of the jaw, alleviating the strain caused by clenching or grinding. The orthotic provides comfort and allows the TMJ joint to relax, reducing pain and discomfort during both day and night.
- TMJ Therapy Protocol: Dr. Mistry’s therapy protocol includes a comprehensive treatment plan that addresses the underlying causes of your jaw pain. It involves:
- Muscle relaxation techniques
- Targeted exercises to strengthen jaw muscles
- Lifestyle adjustments to reduce stress and muscle tension
- Joint manipulation or physical therapy for long-term relief
- Stress Management Tips: While dental treatments can address the physical symptoms of jaw pain, it’s also essential to manage the underlying stress that contributes to it. Dr. Priya Mistry can offer helpful advice on relaxation techniques and stress management strategies, such as mindfulness, deep breathing exercises, and regular physical activity.
Don’t Let Stress Control Your Life
If you’re dealing with jaw pain or discomfort, it’s essential to seek help from a trusted dental professional who understands the connection between stress and TMJ health. Dr. Priya Mistry and her team in Vancouver, WA, are committed to providing compassionate care and helping you find relief from jaw pain caused by stress.
Contact us today to schedule a consultation and take the first step toward a pain-free life!
