I’ve never had any problems with TMJ, until I became pregnant. Now all of a sudden my dentist says I’m afflicted with TMJ and wants me to wear some kind of mouth piece that looks hideous. Can pregnancy cause TMJ?
Meagan H. – Boston
Meagan,
There have been no studies linking pregnancy as a cause. However, pregnancy can be stressful. Between the changes occuring in your body, worrying about preparation for baby’s arrival, the expense of OB’s and hospitals, etc… it is possible that you have been grinding or clenching your teeth without realizing it. This could lead to TMJ.
If your dentist is recommending a mouthguard, then it is likely he has seen evidence of this in your bite. You may have noticed having more headaches than usual as a result as well.
I would get the mouthguard. You’ll likely find improvement in how you feel in a short amount of time.
Congratulations on your upcoming bundle of joy. There is nothing as wonderful as a new baby in a home.
This blog is brought to you by Grosse Pointe Woods Dentist Dr. Theodore Hadgis.