TMD

TMD or Temporomandibular Disorders are a group of conditions that cause pain and dysfunction in the jaw joint and the muscles that control jaw movement.

Causes

The exact cause of a person's TMD is often difficult to determine. Your pain may be due to a combination of factors, such as genetics, arthritis or jaw injury. Some people who have jaw pain also tend to clench or grind their teeth, although many people habitually clench or grind their teeth and never develop TMD.

Symptoms

TMD often causes severe pain and discomfort. It can be temporary or last many years. It might affect one or both sides of your face. More women than men experience TMD and TMD is most common among people between the ages of 20 and 40.

Common symptoms of TMD include:

• Pain or tenderness in your face, jaw joint area, neck and shoulders, and in or around the ear when you chew, speak, or open your mouth wide
• Problems when you try to open your mouth wide
• Jaws that get "stuck" or "lock" in the open- or closed-mouth position
• Clicking, popping, or grating sounds in the jaw joint when you open or close your mouth or chew. This may or may not be painful.
• A tired feeling in your face
• Trouble chewing or a sudden uncomfortable bite — as if the upper and lower teeth are not fitting together properly
• Swelling on the side of your face

Diagnosis

Because many other conditions can cause similar symptoms to TMD — including a toothache, sinus problems, arthritis, or gum disease — your doctor may refer you for a dental or medical exam to rule out these conditions.

Treatment

Treatment for TMD includes pain relievers and hot or cold compresses. In some cases, a dentist can recommend a bite guard or oral splint to prevent teeth grinding during sleep. In severe cases, TMD can be treated with dental work, injections, or surgery.

See also

• Dentistry
• Orthodontics
• Oral and maxillofacial surgery

TMD Resources
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