How TMJD affects our wellbeing
Severe cases of TMJ Disorders or dysfunction represent chronic pain that affects basic human interactions such as smiling, laughing, speaking, eating and intimacy.
I often hear clients with TMJ say that no one understands their pain, and they do not always feel believed by others. I am often the last practitioner they visit, in a final attempt to seek understanding and long-lasting relief. Some have found themselves being passed around healthcare professionals and left feeling unheard, dismissed and with little information on what is causing their TMJ issues. It can be frustrating when the main advice is to get a mouth-guard, take ibuprofen and inject Botox into the masseter muscle. These are short term solutions which do not explore the root cause or look at a wider problem.
Conventional methods do work but for lasting change they need to be in alignment with other modalities that complement each other. I believe we need to take into consideration a biopsychosocial approach which includes biological, social and psychological factors. Until recent years, there has been limited knowledge and education surrounding the TMJ, partly through a lack of research.
The reality is that TMJ dysfunction can really impact overall health and wellbeing. Physical tension and pain can lead to feelings of low mood and anxiety. Stress, depression and anxiety all contribute to jaw tension so those with TMJ dysfunction find themselves stuck in a vicious cycle. Headaches, migraines and tinnitus are symptoms which can be debilitating and prevent people from being able to work or perform daily tasks. Individuals with TMJ dysfunction observe physical changes to their facial expression, often reporting a puffy or asymmetrical face. This leads to feelings of self-consciousness regarding appearance, particularly if there is an inability to smile or talk properly because of limited range of jaw movement. If chewing and swallowing food is difficult, this can cause embarrassment when eating out in public and daily food choices are limited to a softer diet. Finally, TMJ dysfunction can significantly impact people’s sex lives as intimate acts can be painful. This can create hesitancy around becoming intimate with someone, especially if their partner lacks awareness of TMJ issues.
Individuals with TMJ dysfunction may feel isolated by their symptoms but good education can be beneficial in understanding what their body is signalling to them through pain. Exploring the root cause, deeper understanding, and feeling supported during their recovery process can help initiate positive behaviours which encourage healing and a gentle return to enjoyable activities, work and reducing negative thought patterns.
