How is the TMJ loaded when the teeth are clenched together?

When the teeth are clenched together, the temporomandibular joint (TMJ) experiences bilateral compression. This occurs because the occlusal forces generated by the alignment and contact of the upper and lower teeth are distributed across both TMJs simultaneously.

Clenching the teeth leads to equal pressure being exerted on both sides of the jaw, engaging the muscles that contribute to this compression. This bilateral loading is significant as it involves both joints working in unison to manage the forces as well as maintain stability within the joint structures. In terms of functionality, bilateral TMJ compression helps in stabilizing the jaw during activities such as chewing, and it underlines the importance of balanced occlusion for overall TMJ health.

The loading patterns and their implications on joint health are critical in understanding how clenching can influence pain, inflammation, or dysfunction in the TMJ, reinforcing why bilateral compression is a fundamentally accurate description of the forces at play during this action.