Jaw Pain- TMD

Jaw Pain: Temporomandibular Dysfunction (TMD)How often do you chew during the day?

The temporomandibular joint (the joint that allows you to open and close your jaw) is probably one of the most used joints in the body. Think about it, you use it when you are eating, chew gum, and sometimes even when you sleep if you grind your teeth. The temporomandibular joints are comprised of fibrocartilginous surfaces and a number of muscles that allow for easy movement. So,what happens if the muscles that act on the movement of the jaw become overworked or there is disc degeneration? The short answer is you experience pain. Your doctor or dentist should diagnose TMD. The causes of TMD are unclear, but appear to be related to problems with the muscles of the jaw or with the joint itself. Injury to the jaw or muscles of the head and neck, teeth grinding/clenching, hard to chew foods, stress, or arthritis are other possible causes of temporomandibular joint pain.
Common signs and symptoms
* Pain or tenderness in the face, jaw joint area, neck and shoulders, and in or
around the ear when you chew, speak, or open your mouth wide.
* Limited ability to open the mouth very wide
* Jaws that get "stuck" or "lock" in the open- or closed-mouth position
* Clicking, popping, or grating sounds in the jaw joint when opening or closing the
mouth (which may or may not be accompanied by pain)
* A tired feeling in the face
* Difficulty chewing or a sudden uncomfortable bite – as if the upper and lower
teeth are not fitting together properly
* Swelling on the side of the face
Common treatments include acupuncture, massage, applying moist heat or cold packs,
medication, wearing a splint or night guard, and corrective dental treatments. Some life adjustments that can be incorporated are eating soft foods, avoiding extreme jaw
movements, not resting your chin on your hand, keeping your teeth slightly apart, and
learning different relaxation techniques.
Never underestimate the power of stress. How many times do you find yourself
clenching your jaw when you are having a bad day? Acupuncture is a great way
decrease stress, pain, and relax muscles. Points in the ear can be activated using “ear seeds” as a way to continue the treatment at home. Such techniques can also help
decrease tension and pain during a dental visit.