Temporomandibular Disorder
Millions of Americans suffer from chronic facial and neck pain as well as severe, recurring headaches. In some cases, this pain is due to Temporomandibular Disorder, also known as TMD.
Your temporomandibular joints, or TMJs, connect your lower jawbone to your skull. These joints get a lot of use throughout the day as you speak, chew, swallow, and yawn. Pain in and around these joints can be unpleasant and may even restrict movement.
Symptoms of TMD include:
- Pain in the jaw area
- Pain, ringing, or stuffiness in the ears
- Frequent headaches or neck aches
- Clicking or popping sound when the jaw moves
- Muscle spasms in the jaw area
- A change in the alignment of top and bottom teeth
- Locked jaw or limited opening of the mouth
TMD symptoms can have many contributing factors—including muscle tension, joint conditions, injury, stress, and habits such as clenching or grinding—so evaluation and treatment should be individualized. Many people get TMD without ever having braces. Symptoms usually wax and wane regardless of whether braces are worn. If you have jaw pain, clicking, limited opening, or headaches, please let our team know so we can help determine the appropriate next steps.
Can orthodontic treatment help with my jaw pain?
If you feel that you might have TMD, it is always important to see your primary dentist and receive an exam. However, not all jaw pain is associated with TMD. Current evidence shows that orthodontic treatment does not cause temporomandibular disorders (TMD). Since TMD can have multiple contributing factors, orthodontic treatment may not be a cure for your pain. The orthodontist can evaluate if one of the factors is your bite or a skeletal asymmetry and we can help you get those corrected.
Is there something I can do to treat the pain right now?
The first recommendation is visiting a Board Certified Pain Specialist that can help you manage the pain. There are also some recommendations you could do in the meantime:
- Try to relax your face — "Lips together, teeth apart"
- Avoid grinding your teeth
- Avoid gum chewing
- Chew food evenly on both sides of your mouth
- Do not sit with your chin rested on your hand
- Practice good posture: keep your head up, back straight, and shoulders squared
- Massage the area gently with warm compresses
- Try a topical anti-inflammatory cream, if appropriate. Always consult your primary care physician before starting any medication or treatment.