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21 years
Hi my jaw cracks and pops when i chew or even move it around and recently its causing pain i got a rubber retainer, how does it help and is it a solution? are there any proposed solutions thank you
Sep 2, 2014
2nd opinion

Dr. Zakia Dimassi Pediatrics
This is known as temporo-mandibular joint (TMJ) disease (TMD). The most common factor contributing to TMD is a bite problem affecting the joint itself. The structure of individual teeth, if interfered with, may force displacement of the lower jaw, leading the muscles to reposition the joints out of their sockets to force the upper and lower teeth to fit together. Also, wear and tear on the teeth caused by grinding and clenching, or activities outside of normal function – called parafunction – may cause uneven surfaces on the teeth, leading to interferences in the bite and improper jaw closure. Anatomical factors within the joint or surrounding muscles also may affect the bite and cause TMD. Some TMJ disorders may be caused by arthritis and dislocation, while other instances may result from disease. In addition, some people may be genetically predisposed to TMD.
Stress and bruxism: stress could lead to tooth grinding (bruxism) that wears down the teeth, as well as to TMD.
Poor Posture: frequent slouching or hunching over, you may not only hurting your back, but also pushing your jaw out of alignment, causing symptoms of TMD. Poor posture puts the spine in a position that stresses the lower jaw shifts forward, causing the upper and lower teeth misalignment, and the skull to move back on the spinal column. If not addressed, pain and inflammation in the muscles and jaw joints will develop when the mouth opens and closes.
Stress & Clenching. Clenching your teeth while worrying about filing your something could be placing a burden on the TMJ.
Super Sizing: Taking bites that are too big could lead to jaw and muscle pain &aggravate already existing TMD.
The 1st line of treatment is a splint or mouth guard (gouttière). The TMJ splint is worn to reduce stress on the jaw, allow the muscles to function optimally and/or to cover allowing the lower jaw to be repositioned into the socket properly. If you don't wear it, the condition will get worse, you may require surgery.
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