TMD, or temporomandibular joint disorder, is commonly known as TMJ, which refers exclusively to the temporomandibular joint. This joint connects the jaw to bones in the skull, located to the front of your ears, which allow you to speak, eat, yawn, and otherwise move your mouth. Sometimes, these joints can become misaligned or painful to move, resulting in this unique condition. Learn more about this disorder below and seek out a dentist for help if you believe you have it.

What Causes TMD & What Can I Do About It?

Causes & Symptoms

While the exact causes of TMD remain a medical mystery, there are several factors believed to play a significant role. Fracture injuries to these joints, such as whiplash, easily cause misalignments and inflammation. Arthritis is another potential cause. However, it is rare. Other explanations include pressure from chronic teeth grinding and clenching.

Those with TMD may experience stiff jaw muscles, pain in one or both joints, face, neck, and shoulder pain, lockjaw, swelling on the sides of the face, and pain while chewing. Other symptoms include facial “tiredness,” the inability to open the mouth wide, and clicking or popping sounds upon opening and closing the mouth. Bite problems can also occur due to jaw joint misalignments.

Solutions

If a dentist diagnoses you with TMD, the dental health professional may recommend a nightguard if your issue is due to teeth grinding at night. You may also need to limit your intake of hard or crunchy foods, perform stretches and exercises that loosen the jaw, and avoid chewing gum or your nails. The dentist may also suggest tension relief techniques such as walking and meditation if your issue is due to stress-related clenching. Over-the-counter pain relievers and cold packs provide relief as well.

Certain dental treatments and procedures can also help TMD, including braces or crowns to fix your bite, and laser therapy to reduce pain. If your TMJ pain is severe enough, your dentist may recommend oral surgery to replace the joint.

Don’t spend another day with TMD pain—schedule a consultation with Gregory E. Utecht, D.D.S., the Lincoln, NE, dentist providing TMJ treatment among his many other general and cosmetic dentistry services. Call (402) 477-3456 today to make an appointment with the team known for compassionate, personalized care or visit the website to register as a patient. Get more oral health advice on Facebook.