Temporomandibular Disorder
Understanding Temporomandibular Disorder (TMD):
Causes, Symptoms, Treatment Options, and How It Affects Jaw Function and Overall Health
What is Temporomandibular Disorder (TMD)?
- TMD is a very common, painful condition which affects the jaw joints (temporomandibular joints) and associated muscles. Very rarely is TMD associated with an underlying issue with the jaws such as arthritis (wear and tear of the jaw joints), and most people with painful TMD will have healthy jaw joints and muscles. TMD is sometimes called facial arthromyalgia (FAM) or temporomandibular joint dysfunction (TMJD).
- TMD pain usually resolves given time. However, some people may have pain for longer, sometimes lasting several months or years.
- TMD is more common if you suffer with other conditions such as migraine, fibromyalgia, lower back pain or irritable bowel syndrome. Occasionally, TMD can cause other symptoms such as pain in the ears, back teeth or neck.
Who gets TMD?
TMD most commonly affects young adults but can occur in children and older people. Around 1/3rd of people will develop TMD symptoms at some point during their life. Women are slightly more likely to suffer from TMD than men. It most often occurs when people are stressed or anxious – for example when studying for exams, moving house, or starting a new job.
What might I experience if I have TMD?
The following are examples of symptoms that can occur with TMD:
- Pain, discomfort or tenderness of the jaw joints and surrounding muscles. The pain is usually a dull ache but may be a sharp pain and occur suddenly
- Pain associated with normal function of the jaw e.g. biting, chewing or speaking
- Clicking or grinding noises coming from one or both of the jaw joints
- Reduced opening of the mouth or locking of the mouth when opening wide
- Earache, buzzing noises or a feeling of ‘fullness’ in the ear
- Headache, Neck ache, Problems sleeping
What causes TMD?
Stress and anxiety are believed to trigger TMD in most cases, but some people may have a physical trigger, such as an injury to the jaw or an uncomfortable dental treatment.
What are the effects of living with TMD?
Living with ongoing symptoms can be a challenge. Some people find their symptoms do not have a major impact on their life, although they may find them annoying or frustrating. Others find it more difficult to continue with everyday activities and can find the symptoms very distressing. Common problems include stopping or cutting back on enjoyable activities, disturbed sleep, worrying about the future, losing self-confidence and feeling more worried, angry, irritable or low in mood.
Managing TMD Symtoms
Living with TMD can be challenging, but many people find ways to manage their symptoms and maintain a good quality of life. Pain management can often include medications that are helpful for pain symptoms. Pain management strategies can be discussed during your consultation.