Temporomandibular Disorders (TMD) are a complex and poorly understood set of conditions characterized by pain in the jaw joint and surrounding tissues and limitation in jaw movements.

Injuries and other conditions that routinely affect other joints in the body, such as arthritis, also affect the Temporomandibular Joint.

One or both joints may be involved and, depending on the severity, can affect a person’s ability to speak, chew, swallow, make facial expressions, and even breathe.

Also included under the heading of TMD are disorders involving the jaw muscles? These may accompany the jaw joint problems or occur independently.

Who is Affected?

Approximately 12% of the population are affected by TMD at any given time. While both men and women experience these disorders, the majority of those seeking treatment are women in their childbearing years. The ratio of women to men increases with the severity of symptoms, approaching nine women for every one man with major limitations in jaw movements and chronic, unrelenting pain.

What Causes TMD?

Adding to the complexity of TMD is that there can be multiple causes — as well as cases where no obvious cause can be found. Some known causes are the following:

• autoimmune diseases (in which the body's immune cells attack healthy tissue)

• infections

• injuries to the jaw area

• dental procedures (even prolonged mouth opening)

• various forms of arthritis

Symptoms of TMJ Disorders

The pain of TM disorders is often described as a dull, aching pain, which comes and goes in the jaw joint and nearby areas. However, some people report no pain but still have problems moving their jaws. Symptoms may include the following:

• pain in the jaw muscles

• pain in the neck and shoulders

• chronic headaches

• jaw muscle stiffness

• limited movement or locking of the jaw

• ear pain, pressure, fullness, ringing in the ears (tinnitus)

• painful clicking, popping or grating in the jaw joint when opening or closing the mouth

Splints

Most of the TMJ problems patients are prescribed stabilization splint or bite guard, which is made of hard acrylic resin and fits over the upper or lower teeth. Studies of their effectiveness in providing pain relief, however, have been inconclusive. Soft splints however may encourage clenching and grinding, and therefore, increase the symptoms. If a splint causes or increases pain, stop using it immediately and contact us. For more details about the treatment of TMJ problems contact Epic Dental by calling or booking online appointment