The malaligned teeth cause displacement of the mandibular condyle and, through chewing and other dental movements, excessive and misdirected stress and pressure is placed on the soft tissue around the temporomandibular joint.
Emotional problems can lead to bruxism.
Bruxism results when the victim unconsciously develops an uncontrollable clenching and grinding of the teeth.8 Bruxism can result in severe damage to the teeth, the condyle and muscular balance around the joint. Though not primary, the stress factor cannot be overlooked as it can result in physical damage and thereby be a substantial component of the overall syndrome.10 Identification of TMJ symptoms is crucial. Pain is usually localized in and around the joint, however it can be diffused in adjacent areas and even in areas as remote as the back and shoulders. Pain associated with TMJ is usually quite severe and can be the primary cause of attendant headaches. Crepitus14 is the customary popping and clicking experienced in the joint.