TMD

What is TMD?

TMD stands for temporomandibular joint disorder. The disorder is used to describe a number of ailments associated with the small joints that attach the jaw to the skull. Although medical science has not yet isolated the cause of TMD, it has been associated with grinding and clenching of teeth, as a side effect of surgery and also due to arthritis.

The typical symptoms of TMD are the following:

• pain and/or inflammation in the jaw joint and surrounding tissues, including the ear
• jaw locking open or closed
• facial pain
• limited opening or inability to open the mouth comfortably
• headaches
• bite that feels uncomfortable, "off", or as if it is continually changing
• neck, shoulder and back pain
• swelling on the side of the face

Treatment Options for TMD

Sometimes TMD problems will resolve themselves without treatment and minor cases respond to over the counter pain relievers and anti-inflammatory medication. If you have TMD pain that lasts more than a week, or is very severe, you should consult us.

Although there currently is no known medication-type cure for TMD, pain relievers and anti-inflammatory medications are typically prescribed by doctors. We offer treatment options to help manage TMD and reduce the associated risks and pain that can accompany cases of TMD. Typically, these treatment options include working with patients to eliminate the factors that contribute to TMD pain, including using custom-fitted mouth devices to help the patient bite correctly, especially during sleep. As a final approach, oral surgery may also be an option. TMD-related surgery typically will involve manipulating and cleaning out the joint, allowing for more fluid movement, and hopefully eliminating related pain and swelling.