11 TMJ Disorder Statistics That You Should Know –

Some people experience a TMJ disorder but tend to ignore it. Temporomandibular disorder, also known as TMJ disorder, is a complex condition that can worsen over time.

This disorder can be minor, but it can also be quite severe and painful. This is a problem affecting the chewing muscles and the joints that connect the lower jaw to the skull.

TMJ can be tricky to diagnose, and there are some people who suffer from this pain for years before the disorder is diagnosed. Here are 11 unbelievable statistics about TMJ disorders.

How many people are affected by TMJ?

TMJ is the second most commonly occurring musculoskeletal condition that causes pain and dysfunction in the jaw joint and muscles that control jaw movement. It affects over 5 to 12% of the population or 10 million Americans.

Are Women More Likely to be Victims of TMJ Than Men?

Although both genders experience this disorder, the majority of those who are affected are women, with a 9 to 1 ratio.

What is the common age for people to experience TMJ?

90% of TMJ sufferers who are seeking treatment for severe symptoms are women of childbearing age of 20 to 35 years old.

Can kids suffer from TMJ?

Yes, kids can experience it. While most cases of TMJ pain and sufferers are adults, this disorder is rare in children. The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry identified TMJ cases in children. A study reported that 4.2% of adolescents around 12 to 19 years old reported TMJ pain. Another study showed that 25% of 4,724 of 5-17 years old are suffering from the symptoms of TMJ.

How many doctors can diagnose TMJ?

There are 2 doctors that can diagnose TMJ: a dentist or an orthodontist.

How many factors cause TMJ disorders?

Some TMJ disorders are caused by trauma to the jaw or temporomandibular joint. There are 6 other possible causes of TMD: stress; bruxism; wear and tear of the insides of the jaw joint; injury to the jaw front; braces; or specific diseases such as gout, rheumatoid arthritis, or fibromyalgia.

Are there any signs and symptoms of TMJ disorders?

Yes, there are many symptoms involved in TMJ disorders, but there are 6 most common symptoms: pain or tenderness of the jaw; pain in one or both of your temporomandibular joints; difficulty chewing or pain while chewing; earache; facial pain; and difficulty to open or close your mouth.

How many treatments are available for TMJ?

Yes, there are 4 treatment options available to correct your TMJ disorder. However, these treatments should be determined by consulting a dental professional highly experienced in TMJ disorders:

  • Medications that involve using pain relievers, anti-inflammatories, tricyclic antidepressants or muscle relaxants to relieve the pain associated with TMJ disorders.
  • Non-drug therapies include using occlusal appliances (oral splints or mouth guards), physical therapy, or counseling.
  • Surgery if the treatments above cannot cure the TMJ disorder.
  • Alternative medicines to help manage the chronic pain associated with TMJ such as acupuncture, relaxation techniques, or biofeedback.

Can cigarette smoking affect the intensity of TMD pain?

Yes, cigarette smoking can. Current smokers are 4 to 5 times more likely to experience moderate to severe pain. Research by the University of North Carolina Chapel Hill also concluded that young women suffering from TMJ disorders are four times more likely to be current or previous smokers.

Can gum chewing affect TMJ pain?

No, it does not. However, chewing gum can trigger migraine symptoms, which is a symptom of TMJ pain. Research conducted by Tel Aviv University researchers showed that 26 out of 30 patients who stopped chewing gum had significant improvements with their migraine, with 19 of them experiencing complete headache resolution. Chewing gum overworks the temporomandibular joints. Avoiding gum chewing can ease pain and discomfort.

Can anyone experience symptoms of TMJ?

Yes, anyone can experience TMJ symptoms. According to the predictions made by the TMJ Association, 65 to 85% of the US population can experience symptoms of TMJ in their lifetime.

If you are experiencing TMJ pain, you should have this condition properly diagnosed by a professional.

Do you know other statistics about TMJ that you can add? Let us know by writing them in the comment section below.