Causes of Temporomandibular Joint (TMJ) Arthritis

Dec 07, 2021 Source: Cainiu Health

Dr. Lin Yunfei

Introduction

1. Excessive mental stress can cause functional disorders in the nerves of certain areas, thereby triggering this condition. 2. Local trauma—such as a severe blow to the jaw or sudden forceful biting of hard objects—may result in injury to the temporomandibular joint (TMJ), predisposing individuals to temporomandibular joint arthritis. 3. Malocclusion: Many individuals develop temporomandibular joint arthritis due to long-standing dental malocclusion.

Temporomandibular joint (TMJ) arthritis is extremely common, with a particularly high incidence in China. It can lead to various associated symptoms, including joint pain, temporomandibular disorders (TMD), and audible joint clicking or popping. In severe cases, it may even cause widespread pain—including facial and head pain—posing significant health risks. So, what causes TMJ arthritis? Below, we address this question.

Causes of Temporomandibular Joint Arthritis

1. High Psychological Stress

Psychological stress may act as a trigger for temporomandibular joint arthritis. In some individuals, excessive fear about a particular event or disease can disrupt neural function in certain areas, thereby contributing to the onset of this condition. Moreover, heightened anxiety following diagnosis may exacerbate existing symptoms.

2. Local Trauma

Local trauma is a major contributing factor to TMJ arthritis. Clinical observations indicate that injuries such as blunt force impact to the jaw or sudden, forceful biting on hard objects significantly increase the risk of developing TMJ arthritis. Similarly, habitual behaviors—such as regularly consuming excessively hard foods or consistently chewing on one side only—can gradually damage the TMJ and precipitate the disorder. Therefore, minimizing these harmful habits in daily life is essential.

3. Malocclusion

Chronic malocclusion (improper alignment of teeth) is a frequent underlying cause of TMJ arthritis. Over time, abnormal occlusal forces alter the structural integrity of the joint, eventually leading to disease onset. For instance, excessive tooth wear—especially bruxism-related attrition—often results in malocclusion. Thus, timely and appropriate dental restoration of worn teeth is crucial to help prevent TMJ arthritis.

4. Other Contributing Factors

Some cases of TMJ arthritis arise not from typical direct triggers but from systemic conditions. For example, patients with autoimmune diseases—such as rheumatoid arthritis—may experience generalized joint inflammation, including involvement of the TMJ. Additionally, radiation therapy administered for certain cancers may inadvertently damage the TMJ, resulting in secondary TMJ arthritis.

The above outlines the primary etiological factors associated with temporomandibular joint arthritis. We hope this information proves helpful to you.

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What should I do for swollen and painful fingers caused by rheumatoid arthritis?

In general, finger swelling and pain associated with rheumatoid arthritis may result from factors such as excessive hand use, cold exposure to the hands, tenosynovitis, synovitis, or joint effusion. Patients may choose among conservative management, pharmacological therapy, or surgical intervention based on their individual circumstances. Specific recommendations are as follows: In daily life, it is essential to keep the hands warm and protected from cold; prolonged, high-intensity hand activities should be avoided.