TMJ in Women: Why Are Women More Likely to Suffer from Jaw Pain?

Post February 1, 2025

Temporomandibular Joint Disorder (TMD), commonly known as TMJ, affects millions of people worldwide. However, studies show that women are three times more likely to experience TMJ-related pain than men. This jaw condition can lead to discomfort, difficulty chewing, headaches, and even chronic pain, significantly impacting daily life.

At Sweet Dreams Connecticut, located in Madison, CT, we understand the unique challenges women face with TMJ. In this article, we’ll explore the reasons behind this gender disparity, common symptoms, and the most effective treatments to help relieve TMJ pain.

Understanding TMJ: What Is It?

The temporomandibular joint (TMJ) connects the jawbone to the skull, allowing essential movements like chewing, speaking, and yawning. When this joint becomes inflamed, misaligned, or overworked, it leads to TMJ disorder (TMD).

Common TMJ Symptoms in Women

Jaw pain or tenderness
Clicking or popping noises when opening the mouth
Headaches or migraines
Facial tension and discomfort
Ear pain or ringing in the ears (tinnitus)
Difficulty chewing or locking of the jaw
Neck, shoulder, or upper back pain

While both men and women can experience TMJ, women report more severe and frequent cases. But why? Let’s explore the reasons.

Why Are Women More Likely to Experience TMJ Pain?

1. Hormonal Influence: The Estrogen Connection

One of the biggest reasons women are more susceptible to TMJ disorder is hormonal fluctuations, particularly estrogen levels.

Estrogen affects joint health – The TMJ contains estrogen receptors, meaning hormone fluctuations can weaken the joint’s ability to handle stress and inflammation.
TMJ pain intensifies during hormonal changes – Many women report increased jaw pain during menstruation, pregnancy, or menopause, suggesting that estrogen plays a direct role in TMJ discomfort.
Birth control & hormone therapy may impact TMJ – Women on oral contraceptives or hormone replacement therapy (HRT) may experience TMJ issues due to artificial estrogen regulation.

What You Can Do: If you notice TMJ pain worsening at certain times of the month, track your cycle and discuss it with your doctor to find potential solutions.

2. Higher Stress Levels and Jaw Clenching (Bruxism)

Women often experience higher stress and anxiety levels, leading to jaw clenching (bruxism) and teeth grinding, which can strain the TMJ.

Chronic stress and tension can cause muscle tightness, contributing to TMJ pain.
Women are more prone to anxiety and stress-related conditions, increasing the likelihood of involuntary jaw clenching during the day or while sleeping.
Bruxism is a leading cause of TMJ and can lead to jaw soreness, teeth sensitivity, and even tooth damage.

What You Can Do: Stress management techniques such as meditation, deep breathing, and mindfulness can help reduce jaw tension.

3. Differences in Jaw Structure and Muscle Function

Women have smaller and more flexible jawbones than men, making them more susceptible to TMJ issues.

Weaker jaw muscles can struggle to support excessive movement, leading to strain.
A narrower TMJ structure means less stability, increasing the risk of dysfunction.
Women’s facial muscles are more prone to overuse injuries, especially when chewing tough foods or during stress-induced clenching.

What You Can Do: Strengthening the jaw, neck, and facial muscles through targeted exercises can improve stability and reduce TMJ pain.

4. More Frequent Dental Work and Orthodontic Treatments

Women are more likely to seek orthodontic treatments such as braces, retainers, and cosmetic dentistry, which can affect jaw alignment.

Bite misalignment from dental work can cause or worsen TMJ symptoms.
Frequent dental visits and procedures can lead to jaw soreness or discomfort.
Jaw trauma from long dental sessions (such as wisdom tooth extractions) can aggravate TMJ issues.

What You Can Do: If you develop jaw pain after dental procedures, consult a TMJ specialist to ensure your bite alignment is correct.

5. Autoimmune and Chronic Pain Conditions

Women are more likely to suffer from autoimmune disorders, which can contribute to chronic joint pain, including TMJ.

Rheumatoid arthritis, lupus, and fibromyalgia can cause joint inflammation and discomfort, leading to chronic TMJ pain.
Women with fibromyalgia often experience jaw pain as part of widespread muscle and joint discomfort.
Inflammatory conditions can weaken the TMJ, making it more susceptible to pain and dysfunction.

What You Can Do: If you have an autoimmune or chronic pain condition, working with a rheumatologist and TMJ specialist can help manage symptoms.

Best TMJ Treatments for Women

If you suffer from TMJ pain, there are several effective treatments to help manage discomfort and improve jaw function.

1. At-Home Remedies

Apply hot or cold packs to soothe inflammation and relax muscles.
Avoid hard or chewy foods that strain the jaw.
Practice good posture to reduce neck and jaw tension.
Use a soft diet when experiencing severe flare-ups.

2. TMJ Exercises and Physical Therapy

Gentle jaw stretches to improve flexibility.
Strengthening exercises for better jaw stability.
Massage therapy to relieve facial muscle tension.

3. Stress Reduction Techniques

Yoga, meditation, and deep breathing to lower stress levels.
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) for anxiety-related clenching.
Acupuncture or chiropractic care for muscle relaxation.

4. Medical and Dental Interventions

Mouthguards or night splints to prevent teeth grinding.
Botox injections to relax overactive jaw muscles.
Medications (anti-inflammatory or muscle relaxants) for pain relief.
Surgical interventions (only for severe cases).

Conclusion: Managing TMJ for a Pain-Free Life

Women are more prone to TMJ disorder due to hormonal changes, stress, jaw structure, and underlying health conditions. However, with the right combination of self-care, therapy, and medical treatments, TMJ pain can be effectively managed.

At Sweet Dreams Connecticut, located in Madison, CT, we are dedicated to helping women find lasting relief from TMJ pain. If you’re struggling with jaw discomfort, headaches, or muscle tension, reach out to us today for expert advice and treatment options.

Say goodbye to jaw pain and hello to sweet dreams!