TMJ disorders are multifactorial in origin. Trauma to the jaw may play a role in some disorders as this can lead to stretching of the joint ligaments or displacement of the articular disc.

Other risk factors include systemic arthritic conditions (rheumatoid arthritis), excessive jaw behaviours (jaw clenching /tooth grinding / gum chewing / playing wind instruments etc). The psychosocial environment is thought to play a role in some cases. For many people, symptoms may start without an obvious trigger. TMJ disorders most commonly occur in women between the ages of 30 and 50 and consequently a hormonal contribution is also possible. What is clear now through research is that a bad bite or malocclusion is not now considered a major contributing factor.