Motor vehicle accidents can be traumatizing life-altering events. In 2018 alone, there were over 33,000 fatal motor vehicle crashes in the US alone. While 33,000 is a staggering statistic, there are even more people who experience trauma as a result of a car accident. This trauma can often lead to unexpected consequences. One such consequence is how a car accident can impact the TMJ.

Intricacy of the Joint

The temporomandibular joint is one of the most intricate networks in the entire body. The joint is an intersection of:

• Bones
• Muscle
• Nerves
• Teeth
• Airway

TMJ and Trauma

For this reason, any external trauma or strain experienced at the temporomandibular joint site can have detrimental effects. For example, even in the safest of conditions where the driver is wearing a seat belt and their airbag deploys normally, their face will still collide with the airbag. This collision could result in a shift in joint alignment, leading to countless complications downstream.

Misalignment isn’t the only concern in regards to TMJ trauma; there are a host of other concerns as well. For example, the lurching motion that typically accompanies a sudden stop in motion can cause the muscles in the neck to be hyperextended. Traumas to supporting structures of this system are most often shouldered by the TMJ, which spells more consequences.

Symptoms of Temporomandibular Joint Disorder

People who live an experience similar to those described above may experience a wide range of symptoms as a result. Also known as “the great imposter,” TMD can take many forms. Some of the more common symptoms of this difficult to diagnose disorder include:

• Headaches and migraines
• Overbite/underbite
• Clenching and grating the teeth
• Back/neck/shoulder aches and pains
• Difficulty chewing, swallowing, or breathing

How to Mitigate the Effects of TMD

Regardless of the severity of a car accident, few people prioritize considering its effects on their teeth or jaw. While it may not be the first thing they consider, damage to the TMJ can have long-lasting effects that stick with victims long after they think they’ve recovered. To reduce the severity of symptoms, people can:

• Use moist heat to reduce inflammation
• Avoid foods that are sticky, chewy, tough, or overly crunchy
• Wear a nightguard
• Schedule a consultation with a neuromuscular dentistry specialist for advanced treatment plans and improved results

Neuromuscular Dentistry in Lynnwood, WA

Dr. David Buck is one of the most renowned neuromuscular dentists in the field. His experience treating patients with TMD is unparalleled, which has allowed his patients to experience true relief often when other professionals were not able to help. Call (425) 361-0715 or visit our contact page here to schedule a consultation.