TEMPOROMANDIBULAR DISORDER (TMD)

It is estimated that 20% to 70% of people will experience neck pain at some point in their lives and it is estimated that 20% suffer from chronic facial and neck pain as well as recurring headaches. In some cases, this pain is called Temporomandibular Disorder, or TMD.
Your temporomandibular joints (TMJ) 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:

  • Locked jaw or limited opening of the mouth
  • Pain in the jaw area
  • Frequent headaches or neck aches
  • Clicking or popping sound when the jaw moves
  • Swelling on the sides of the face
  • Muscle spasms in the jaw area

Your orthodontist can help indicate the presence of TMD and create a therapeutic treatment just for you.

There are a few simple steps you can take at home or work to prevent TMD from becoming more severe, or to prevent it from occurring…

  • Relax your face
  • Avoid clenching or grinding your teeth
  • Avoid constant gum chewing
  • Don’t cradle the phone receiver between your head and shoulder — either use a headset or hold the receiver in your hand
  • 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