Certain lengthy or forceful dental and medical procedures may also contribute. Although not thought to cause TMD, they can make the symptoms worse. However, recent studies do not confirm this view. Diseases of the TMJ, such as arthritis in the jaw joints, and diseases that can lead to excessive or uncontrollable jaw movements, such as Parkinson's disease, may also be contributing factors. However, it is not clear whether these problems are present before the start of TMD and contribute to its cause or whether the pain and dysfunction from TMD lead to these problems.
Many people increase their tooth grinding and clenching when under stress.
Most cases are diagnosed based on your own description of symptoms, your medical and dental history and a physical examination of the jaw, head, and neck. Tailored treatment Treatment should be tailored to your individual symptoms and contributing factors. Since there is no cure, treatment focuses on management of the disorder. Simple treatment to relieve the discomfort and restore proper functioning is often all that is needed. Most clinicians and researchers strongly recommend conservative, reversible treatment that causes no permanent changes in the structure or position of the jaw or teeth.