Have you found that your jaw hurts or aches consistently? Do you ever experience popping or locking of your jaw? If so, you might be suffering from temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorder (TMD). Your TMJ controls the movements of your lower jaw and can cause various problems when it is not working correctly. And while both men and women are vulnerable to TMD, nine out of 10 people who seek treatment are female. Let’s take a closer look at why that is the case. 

Women and TMD

Of those who seek treatment for TMD, most are between the ages of 18 and 44. While we’re not quite sure why this is the case, we do suspect it has something to do with hormones. Another reason might be the differences in jaw anatomy. 

While TMD might seem like it is nothing more than an annoying ache for women, it can actually lead to further complications such as increased risk of headaches, migraines, back aches and other pains throughout the body. And COVID-19 can add to the worsening of your symptoms, so it is extra important to get vaccinated and follow proper precautions to protect yourself.

Seek treatment for TMD now

If you think you might be suffering from TMD, don’t just push through the pain. Instead, it is important that you reach out to your dentist to learn more about what treatment options are available for your individual case. 

Here are some ways to help you find relief from your jaw pain and aches:

  • Look for ways to lessen your stress. 
  • Talk to your dentist. 
  • Find ways to manage your symptoms. 

Contact us at AZ Sleep & TMJ Solutions to learn more about TMD and what treatment options are available for you.