Restoring balance is at the heart of our practice. As one of our three pillars to successful dentistry, providing a balanced bite lets our patients experience more than just a better smile. Jaw imbalance can leave you feeling mentally off-balance and affect your life in unexpected ways.
TMJ Connections to Mental Health
The temporomandibular joint (TMJ) is situated at an intersection of numerous muscles, tendons, and nerves. As a result of its location, a dysfunction or disorder of the joint (TMD) can affect other systems and result in symptoms many wouldn’t normally associate with a jaw disorder. One of these consequences of TMJ dysfunction is anxiety.
An underdeveloped or misaligned jaw can result in strain on supporting muscles such as those in the neck, shoulders, back, and head. When these muscles become strained, they can trigger the sympathetic nervous system.
Sympathetic Nervous System Response
When the body undergoes stress, like when muscles experience long-term strain from TMJ disorder, the brain responds by pumping the hormone epinephrine (also known as adrenaline) into the bloodstream. As epinephrine circulates through the body, it brings on a number of physiological changes, including:
- The heart beating faster than normal
- Blood being pushed into the muscles, heart, and other vital organs
- Pulse rate and blood pressure going up
- Rapid breathing
Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD)
Experts believe Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD) stems from the amygdala, the area in the brain where anxiety is processed. Generalized anxiety disorder can include any combination of the following symptoms:
- Restlessness
- Muscle tension
- Fatigue
- Irritability
- Difficulty concentrating
- Having your mind go blank
- Uncontrollable worrying
- Falling asleep, staying asleep, or unsatisfying sleep
Anxiety Can Make TMJ Symptoms Worse
The connection between stress, anxiety, and the TMJ runs both ways. When the body endures a sudden onset of stress, muscles tense up. This tensing of muscles can result in clenching your jaw, putting additional stress on the TMJ, and worsening symptoms.
Could A Jaw Imbalance Be the Cause of Your Anxiety?
Dr. Marzban has years of experience treating patients with cosmetic dental problems, TMJ disorder, and airway issues. By promoting and focusing on Beauty, Balance, and Breath, our dedicated team of dental professionals provides patients with beautiful, balanced, and functional smiles. For more information on jaw imbalances and their effects on anxiety, contact Dr. Pamela Marzban’s office at 703-323-8200.
