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Temporomandibular disorder (TMD)

Author:NHS.uk
Written on:2020-08-05
Go to Health A-Z:Click A-Z


Temporomandibular disorder (TMD)

  • Temporomandibular disorder (TMD)


    • Temporomandibular disorder (TMD) is a condition affecting the movement of the jaw. It's not usually serious and generally gets better on its own.



    Check if you have temporomandibular disorder (TMD)

    Signs of TMD include:


    • pain around your jaw, ear and temple

    • clicking, popping or grinding noises when you move your jaw

    • a headache around your temples

    • difficulty opening your mouth fully

    • your jaw locking when you open your mouth


    The pain may be worse when chewing and when you feel stressed.


    TMD can also stop you getting a good night's sleep.




    There are some simple things you can do to try to reduce your jaw pain.

      Do



    • eat soft food, like pasta, omelettes and soup


    • take paracetamol or ibuprofen


    • hold ice packs or heat packs to the jaw, whichever feels better


    • massage the painful jaw muscles


    • try to find ways to relax




      Don't



    • do not chew gum or pen tops


    • do not bite food with your front teeth


    • do not yawn too wide


    • do not bite your nails


    • do not clench your teeth – apart from when eating, your teeth should be apart


    • do not rest your chin on your hand




    See a GP if:


    • youre unable to eat or drink

    • the pain is affecting your daily life

    • the pain is affecting your sleep

    • the pain and discomfort keep coming back



    Treatments for temporomandibular disorder (TMD) from a GP

    The GP may suggest:


    • stronger painkillers

    • relaxation techniques to reduce stress

    • ways to improve your sleep


    They might suggest you see:


    • a dentist – if teeth grinding might be an issue

    • a psychologist – if stress and anxiety are making your pain worse

    • a physiotherapist – for advice about jaw exercises and massage


    If these treatments do not help, you may be referred to a specialist in joint problems to discuss other options, such as painkilling injections or surgery.



    Causes of temporomandibular disorder (TMD)

    TMD can be caused by:


    • teeth grinding

    • wear and tear of the joint

    • a blow to the head or face

    • stress

    • an uneven bite



    NHS.uk


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