Temporomandibular disorders (TMD) involves the two joints that attach the lower jaw (mandible) to the skull. These two joints open and close the mouth, and are located directly in front of your ears.
You may have TMD if:
- The temporomandibular joints (TMJ) are chronically inflamed and sore.
- The muscles that work the temporomandibular joints are regularly in spasm.
- The cushioning disc that should rest between the temporomandibular joint and the skull becomes worn out or displaced.
Researchers do not exactly know what causes TMD. Some people have had accidents or injuries involving their jaw, but many others have had no such incident. Some of the possible causes include:
-
Grinding the teeth or clenching the jaw in response to stress, known as
bruxism
- Arthritis of the temporomandibular joint
- History of injury or trauma to the joint
- Facial bone defects
- Misalignments of the jaw or of the bite
TMD symptoms may originate within the joint itself or from the muscles that surround the joint. The treatment of these two variants of TMD may differ.
Last reviewed February 2013 by Peter Lucas, MD; Brian Randall, MD
Please be aware that this information is provided to supplement the care provided by your physician. It is neither intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. CALL YOUR HEALTHCARE PROVIDER IMMEDIATELY IF YOU THINK YOU MAY HAVE A MEDICAL EMERGENCY. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider prior to starting any new treatment or with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.
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