TMD describes a group of conditions characterized by pain and dysfunction of the temporomandibular joint and/or the surrounding muscles. While it’s not always easy to figure out exactly what's causing these symptoms, most TMD cases resolve themselves with the help of conservative remedies that you can try at home.
The two joints that connect your lower jaw to the temporal bone of the skull on either side are very complex. Allowing movement in three dimensions, the lower jaw and temporal bone fit together as a ball and socket, with a cushioning disk in between. Large pairs of muscles in the cheeks and temples move the lower jaw. Any of these parts — the disk, the muscles or the joint itself — can become the source of a TMD problem. If you are in pain or are having difficulty opening or closing your jaw, a thorough examination can help pinpoint the problem area so that an appropriate remedy can be recommended.
Signs and Symptoms of TMD:
Sometimes a temporary change to a softer diet can reduce stress on the muscles and joints. Ice or moist heat can help relieve inflammation, while muscle spasms can be helped with gentle stretching exercises. Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory medications and muscle relaxants can also provide relief.
Severe TMD cases may require more complex forms of treatment like orthodontics, dental restorations or minor procedures inside the joint. It’s rare for major surgery ever to be necessary in a case of TMD. It’s important to try the wide range of conservative, reversible treatments available, and give them enough time to work as they almost always prove effective.
TMD describes a group of conditions characterized by pain and dysfunction of the temporomandibular joint and/or the surrounding muscles. While it’s not always easy to figure out exactly what's causing these symptoms, most TMD cases resolve themselves with the help of conservative remedies that you can try at home.
The two joints that connect your lower jaw to the temporal bone of the skull on either side are very complex. Allowing movement in three dimensions, the lower jaw and temporal bone fit together as a ball and socket, with a cushioning disk in between. Large pairs of muscles in the cheeks and temples move the lower jaw. Any of these parts — the disk, the muscles or the joint itself — can become the source of a TMD problem. If you are in pain or are having difficulty opening or closing your jaw, a thorough examination can help pinpoint the problem area so that an appropriate remedy can be recommended.
Signs and Symptoms of TMD:
Sometimes a temporary change to a softer diet can reduce stress on the muscles and joints. Ice or moist heat can help relieve inflammation, while muscle spasms can be helped with gentle stretching exercises. Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory medications and muscle relaxants can also provide relief.
Severe TMD cases may require more complex forms of treatment like orthodontics, dental restorations or minor procedures inside the joint. It’s rare for major surgery ever to be necessary in a case of TMD. It’s important to try the wide range of conservative, reversible treatments available, and give them enough time to work as they almost always prove effective.