Habitual gum chewing or fingernail biting. Patients may complain that it is difficult to find a comfortable bite, or that the way their teeth fit together has changed. Chewing on only one side of the jaw can lead to or be a result of TMJ problems. Trauma to the jaws. Previous history of broken jaw or fractured facial bones.
Stress frequently leads to unreleased nervous energy.
It is very common for people under stress to release this nervous energy by either consciously or unconsciously grinding and clenching their teeth. Occupational tasks such as holding the telephone between the head and shoulder. Symptoms tend to be chronic, and treatment is aimed at eliminating precipitating factors. Many symptoms may not appear related to the TMJ itself. Pain is often made worse while opening and closing the jaw.