Temporal Mandibular Dysfunction
TMD or TMJ Dysfunction
Temporomandibular disorders (TMD) occur as a result of problems with the jaw, jaw joint and surrounding facial muscles hat control chewing and moving the jaw.
These disorders are often called TMJ, which stands for temporomandibular joint. The temporomandibular joint (TMJ) is the hinge joint that connects the lower jaw (mandible) to the temporal bone of the skull
What Causes TMD?
Grinding or clenching the teeth, which puts a lot of pressure on the TMJ
Dislocation of the soft cushion or disc between the ball and socket
Presence of arthritis in the TMJ
Stress, which can cause a person to tighten facial and jaw muscles or clench the teeth
Injury to the jaw, temporomandibular joint, or muscles of the head and neck such as from a heavy blow or whiplash
What are the Symptoms of TMD?
Pain or tenderness in the face, jaw joint area, neck and shoulders, and in or around the ear when you chew, speak, or open your mouth wide.
Limited ability to open the mouth very wide
Jaws that get "stuck" or "lock" in teh open or closed mouth position
Clicking, popping, grating sounds in the jaw joint when opening or closing the mouth (which may or may not be accompanied by pain) or chewing
A tired feeling in the face
Difficulty chewing or a sudden uncomfortable bite – as if the upper and lower teeth are not fitting together properly
Swelling on the side of the face
May occur on one or both sides of the face
Toothaches, headaches, neck aches, dizziness, earaches, hearing problems, upper shoulder pain, and ringing in the ears (tinnitis).
What Are The Treatments for TMD?
- Acupuncture
- Resting the temporomandibular joint (TMJ)
- Medicine or pain relievers.
- Relaxation techniques and stress management.
- Behavior changes (to reduce or stop teeth clenching)
- Physical therapy.
- An orthopedic appliance or mouthguard worn in the mouth (to reduce teeth grinding)
- Posture training.