The temporomandibular joints (TMJ) hold the jaw in place and allow it to move when speaking and eating. These joints are incredibly complex, and a patient can experience symptoms such as headaches, backaches, and neck pain if they become unbalanced or misaligned. However, you may not be aware of how TMJ disorders (TMD) can make speaking more difficult and uncomfortable. Here’s a brief guide to how TMD can affect your speaking ability and what you can do about it.
The Restless Life of the TMJ
The temporomandibular joint allows the jaw to make all the movements necessary for speech and plays a significant role in keeping the airway open. Since the TMJ is almost constantly busy with motions such as chewing, speaking, and breathing, it rarely has any time to rest. While it can go for many decades working smoothly, years of frequent motion can lead to the TMJ’s various parts slipping out of alignment, resulting in discomfort, pain, and clicking sounds when the joint moves.
How Can TMD Affect My Speech?
In some advanced cases of TMD, patients notice that it has a significant effect on their speech. Sometimes this is because they have to get used to moving their mouths differently due to changes in the joint’s alignment. Some patients report that their voices change, they find themselves slurring their words frequently, or even that they produce more or less saliva than they normally do when speaking. TMJ can also affect speech by changing the shape of the teeth since it can alter how they come together, thereby changing how they wear down over time.
How Can My Dentist Treat TMD?
Luckily, dentists can perform a variety of treatments to address TMD. Two of these include:
- Equilibration/occlusal adjustments: By altering the shape of your teeth, your dentist can help the jaw and bite become better aligned, alleviating the symptoms of TMD.
- Occlusal splints: If your TMD is caused by bruxism, your dentist may recommend wearing an occlusal splint over your top or bottom teeth at night. This mouthguard-like device will serve to cushion your TMJ from the stress of grinding.
Don’t let TMD get in the way of your ability to communicate clearly. If you suspect that your jaw joints aren’t working properly, consulting with your dentist may help you find the best solution to the problem.
About the Author
Dr. Mihran Asinmaz earned his dental doctorate at Nova Southeastern University before completing a rigorous General Practice Residency in the North Shore – Long Island Jewish Health System. He is also proud to be a member of the American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry and the Academy of General Dentistry. His office in West Palm Beach offers general, restorative, cosmetic, and emergency dentistry as well as TMJ treatments. If you have been living with chronic jaw pain, contact his office online or dial (561) 640-9200.