Do you frequently experience pain in your face and jaw, chronic headaches, or difficulty chewing? These are all symptoms of problems with the temporomandibular joint (TMJ) that connects your jaw to your skull. While TMJ disorder in South Portland can impact anyone, research suggests that it is more common in women than in men. Not only that, but cases of TMJ disorder (TMD) have skyrocketed since the Covid-19 pandemic began. Why is that? Continue reading as we explore the relationship between gender, TMD, and Covid-19.
Gender and TMD
Research from the National Women’s Health Network explains that women between the ages of 18 and 44 are more likely to seek TMD treatment than any other segment of the population. Men’s ages do not seem to affect their likelihood of seeking TMD therapy.
Additionally, the worse the symptoms are, the greater the gender discrepancy in the genders of patients. Women are up to nine times more likely to seek for extreme TMD-related jaw pain than men.
Why Is TMD More Common in Women?
While researchers have not reached any definitive conclusions between this correlation, they consider the following as possible explanations for the relationship:
- Hormones. Because women of childbearing age are most likely to suffer from TMD, it may have something to do with their monthly hormone cycles. There are even estrogen receptors in the jaw that can affect pain sensitivity.
- Vitamin deficiencies. Menstruation can cause deficiencies in certain vitamins and minerals, like magnesium, which may contribute to tension and spasms in the facial muscles.
- Related medical conditions. Arthritis, which is more common in women than in men, can contribute to the development of TMD.
What Role Does Covid-19 Play?
Another factor that may affect the rise in TMD cases is the Covid-19 pandemic. Since March, many of us have lost jobs, homes, or friends and family members. We’ve had to get adjusted to working or attending school from home and not seeing loved ones as often as we would like. As a result, some Americans are taking their anxiety and frustration out on their teeth and jaws.
These feelings can cause people to clench their jaws and grind their teeth, often without even realizing it. Dentists across the country have seen an increase in cases of cracked and worn-down teeth due to pandemic-related stress.
How to Find Relief from TMD
Regardless of your gender or level of stress, you should seek treatment for TMD from your dentist right away if you experience jaw pain. After they examine your mouth and jaw and ask you some questions, they can prescribe a suitable treatment. For instance, they may recommend an occlusal splint to gently shift your jaw into a more comfortable alignment.
TMD has become increasingly prevalent during the age of Covid-19, especially in women of childbearing age. Luckily, lasting relief may be as simple as scheduling an appointment with your dentist.
About the Author
Since earning her doctorate in dentistry from the Tufts University School of Dental Medicine, Dr. Katherine Parét has diligently pursued continuing education opportunities in a variety of areas, including TMD therapy. If you’re experiencing jaw pain, she can provide you with the safe, effective treatment you need to feel relief. To learn more, you can contact Mind Your Mouth via their website.