Certainly, jaw pain can be quite bothersome and disruptive. While there can be various causes for this discomfort, it is more likely to affect women due to several reasons. Let's explore the seven main factors that make women more susceptible to jaw pain compared to men.
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Stress: Women often face higher stress levels, which can lead to teeth clenching and grinding, resulting in jaw pain. Research published in the Journal of the American Dental Association shows that women report more stress-related symptoms associated with temporomandibular joint disorder (TMJD).
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Bruxism: Teeth grinding, known as bruxism, is more prevalent among women. This habit exerts significant pressure on the jaw joint, leading to pain. According to a study in the Journal of Oral Rehabilitation, women are twice as likely as men to grind their teeth.
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Pregnancy: Hormonal changes during pregnancy can impact the TMJ. The added weight and pressure from carrying a baby can contribute to chronic jaw pain. A study in the Journal of Orofacial Pain revealed that 60% of pregnant women experience TMJ-related pain.
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Hormonal Fluctuations: Women experience hormonal fluctuations throughout their menstrual cycle, which can affect the TMJ. Estrogen and progesterone can cause inflammation and pain in the jaw joint. The National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research states that women of childbearing age are four times more likely to develop TMJD than men.
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Osteoporosis: Women are more prone to osteoporosis, a condition where bones become weak and brittle. The jawbone can also be affected, leading to pain and discomfort. The International Osteoporosis Foundation reports that women are more likely than men to experience osteoporotic fractures, including those in the jawbone.
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Dental Work: Women undergo dental procedures such as fillings, root canals, and crowns more frequently. These treatments can cause jaw trauma and subsequent pain. The American Dental Association states that women are more likely than men to visit the dentist regularly and receive dental procedures.
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Anatomy: Women generally have smaller and more delicate jawbones compared to men, making them more susceptible to jaw pain. A study published in the Journal of Orofacial Pain indicates that women have a shorter and more sloping mandibular ramus (part of the jawbone connecting to the skull) than men.
At SmileFitz, we understand the impact of jaw pain on your daily life. That's why we offer three different types of nightguards, tailored to address specific symptoms and individual preferences.
If you experience night time grinding, clenching, or gnawing, our custom handcrafted nightguards provide effective protection for your teeth and jaw. Depending on your symptoms and comfort preferences, we have various options available for helping you to relief from jaw pain, so please contact our specialist for more information. info.smilefitz@gmail.com
This blog posting written by Lydia Lee with the help of ChatGPT.