What is TMD?
Temporomandibular disorder (TMD) refers to a group of conditions that affect the temporomandibular joint (TMJ), which connects the jawbone to the skull. TMD can cause pain and discomfort in the jaw joint and the muscles that control jaw movement.
What are the symptoms of TMD?
The symptoms of TMD can vary, but they often include:
Pain or tenderness in the jaw joint, face, neck, or shoulders
Difficulty or discomfort when chewing, biting, or opening the mouth wide
Clicking, popping, or grinding noises when opening or closing the mouth
Locking or limited movement of the jaw
Headaches, earaches, or ringing in the ears
Swelling or a feeling of tiredness in the face
What causes TMD?
The exact cause of TMD is not always clear, but it can be linked to a number of factors, including:
Jaw injury or trauma
Teeth grinding or clenching (bruxism)
Arthritis or other joint disorders
Stress or anxiety
Poor posture
Dental problems
How is TMD diagnosed?
If you think you may have TMD, your healthcare provider will likely perform a physical exam and ask about your symptoms and medical history. They may also order imaging tests, such as X-rays or an MRI, to help confirm the diagnosis.
How is TMD treated?
Treatment for TMD will depend on the severity and underlying cause of your symptoms. In many cases, self-care measures can help alleviate pain and discomfort, such as:
Eating soft foods and avoiding hard or chewy foods
Applying heat or ice to the affected area
Practicing relaxation techniques, such as deep breathing or meditation
Avoiding actions that aggravate your symptoms, such as yawning widely or singing loudly
Your healthcare provider may also recommend other treatments, such as chiropractic care, manual therapy, dry needling, dental splints or mouth guards, or in rare cases, surgery.
Systematic review citations:
Al-Ani MZ, Davies SJ, Gray RJ, Sloan P, Glenny AM. Stabilisation splint therapy for temporomandibular pain dysfunction syndrome. Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews. 2004;(1):CD002778.
de Souza RF, Chaves TC, de Oliveira AS, Grossi DB, Salvetti XM. Electromyographic biofeedback for the management of temporomandibular disorders: a systematic review of the literature. J Appl Oral Sci. 2006 Sep;14(4):253-8.
Information on this website is for general informational purposes and should not be considered medical advice. It is not intended for the purpose of diagnosis, and no doctor-patient relationship is formed. Always consult with your physician or other qualified health professional regarding your medical condition.
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