Because November is TMJ Awareness Month, let’s talk about Temporomandibular Joint Disorder (TMD), a painful condition that hinders an individual’s productivity, comfort, and overall quality of life. The temporomandibular joint (TMJ) connects your jaw to your skull, and plays a crucial role in everyday functions such as talking, chewing, and breathing. But when the TMJ becomes strained or damaged, TMDs may develop. According to the TMJ Association, about 36 million Americans suffer from TMD, with an annual economic impact of $32 billion. For companies focused on fostering wellness and productivity, addressing TMJ-related issues should be a part of employee health initiatives. At Dentists on Demand, we offer onsite preventative dental care to identify and address early symptoms of TMD, contributing to the overall wellness of your employees and enhancing productivity by reducing downtime due to pain and discomfort.
What is the TMJ, and Why Does It Matter?
The TMJ is a unique joint that functions like a hinge, allowing the jaw to move up, down, and side-to-side smoothly. This movement enables actions like chewing, speaking, and yawning. However, given its versatility and continuous use, the TMJ is highly susceptible to stress and strain. If the joint or surrounding muscles are damaged or misaligned, Temporomandibular Joint Disorders (TMD) are likely to follow. TMD manifests as chronic pain, limited jaw mobility, and other discomforts that can significantly affect a person’s day-to-day life.
Symptoms of TMD
- Persistent jaw pain or soreness
- Clicking or popping sounds when opening or closing the mouth
- Limited jaw movement or “locking”
- Headaches and neck pain
- Difficulty chewing or biting
These symptoms not only disrupt an individual’s personal life but can also result in reduced workplace productivity, difficulty focusing, and, in severe cases, frequent sick leave.
Common Causes and Risk Factors for TMD
Understanding the causes of TMD is essential in addressing the root issues and preventing progression. Here are some common causes.
- Teeth Grinding (Bruxism): Unconscious grinding or clenching, often due to stress or anxiety, places immense pressure on the TMJ.
- Poor Posture: Forward head posture, common in employees working long hours at computers, strains the jaw muscles.
- Arthritis: Both osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis can affect the TMJ, leading to degeneration.
- Injury: Accidents or injuries to the jaw can lead to misalignment.
- Dental Malocclusion: An improper bite can create alignment issues that strain the TMJ.
Who is at Risk for TMD?
Employees who work in high-stress environments or spend extensive time at their desks are more prone to develop TMD. Encouraging ergonomic work setups, promoting breaks, and offering stress-management support can help reduce the incidence of TMD. Of course, it’s equally important to ensure that companies include preventative dental care into their wellness programs.
The Impact of TMD on Workplace Productivity
The ripple effects of TMD extend beyond physical discomfort. Employees with TMD may experience frequent headaches, sleep disruption, and mood changes, all of which can significantly impact their job performance. In severe cases, individuals may need to take time off work, seek extensive medical care, or undergo corrective treatments, all of which can be costly for both employees and employers.
Studies show that chronic pain conditions like TMD contribute to higher rates of absenteeism and presenteeism (working while in pain or discomfort), both of which reduce overall productivity. Companies that address TMJ health as part of their wellness programs can enhance employee well-being, reduce health costs, and improve workplace morale.
TMJ Health and Preventative Care
At Dentists on Demand, our portable services bring preventative dental care right to your office. We perform regular screenings, consultations, and deliver preventative care that can help identify signs of TMD early.
- Early Detection: Dentists on Demand offers screenings that assess TMD symptoms like jaw tenderness, joint noise, and limited range of motion.
- Customized Preventative Plans: If we identify signs of TMD, we can offer custom recommendations for night guards, relaxation exercises, or ergonomic adjustments tailored to each employee’s needs.
- Education and Training: We provide information on lifestyle changes that can alleviate TMJ strain, such as maintaining proper posture, managing stress, and performing gentle jaw exercises.
- Stress-Reduction Techniques: Because stress is a major factor in TMD, we can provide guidance on stress management or connect employees with additional resources like guided relaxation or mindfulness programs.
A Common Misnomer and a Common Problem
As Dr. Lindzy Goodman explains, “Many people confuse temporomandibular disorder (TMD) with the more popular term TMJ. It’s important to understand the difference, however. TMJ is the abbreviation for the temporomandibular joint (TMJ) – the hinge of the jaw. So, TMJ is the physical part of the body affected by TMD, which is the actual disease.”
Dental scientists and researchers have found a strong correlation between TMD and bruxism, the technical term for clenching and grinding one’s teeth. Up to 30% of the population has this habit. Work-related stress and anxiety are major culprits along with alcohol, caffeine, nicotine and recreational drug use, particularly substances such as cocaine and MDMA.
TMJ Disorder Symptoms to Watch For
Recognizing the signs of TMJ disorders is crucial for early diagnosis and effective treatment. If you experience any of the following symptoms, it’s important to consult with a dental professional.
- Jaw Pain or Soreness: Persistent pain in the jaw joint or muscles.
- Headaches: Frequent headaches, especially in the temple area.
- Clicking or Popping Sounds: Clicking, popping, or grating sounds when you open or close your mouth.
- Limited Jaw Movement: Difficulty in fully opening or closing the mouth.
- Ear Pain: Unexplained ear aches not related to ear infections.
Practical Tips for Employees to Alleviate TMJ Discomfort
Our goal is not just to identify issues but to empower employees with actionable steps. Here are some practical, daily techniques employees can use to reduce TMJ strain.
- Ergonomic Adjustments: Ensure desks and monitors are set up at a comfortable height, allowing for proper posture.
- Jaw Exercises: Gentle stretching and relaxation exercises can help reduce muscle tension.
- Avoid Hard Foods: Foods that require excessive chewing, like nuts or hard candies, can exacerbate TMJ pain.
- Use Mouth Guards: Custom mouth guards can prevent grinding or clenching, reducing stress on the TMJ.
- Take Frequent Breaks: Taking breaks to stand, stretch, and walk can alleviate physical and mental stress.
Why Invest in Onsite TMJ Health Services?
For companies looking to prioritize employee wellness, onsite TMJ care is a valuable addition to any health program. Dentists on Demand makes it easy for employees to access care without leaving the workplace, making preventative measures more accessible. By reducing the likelihood of TMD and related health issues, companies can promote a healthier, more productive workforce.
TMD and Beyond: Why Preventative Dental Matters to Your Business
TMJ Awareness Month is an opportunity to recognize the importance of joint health and the role it plays in our daily lives. But preventative care offers long-term and wide-reaching benefits to your workforce. Regular dental checkups can catch a variety of health issues early, not just TMD. This proactive approach can reduce the costs associated with emergency dental visits and complex treatments. For companies dedicated to employee well-being, portable dental care through Dentists on Demand offers a powerful way to support comprehensive oral health, enhance productivity, and foster a culture of wellness.
Why not schedule a pop-up today? Or get in touch with us if you’d like to learn more about how we can help.