The jaw joint (temporomandibular joint) may occasionally or chronically become painful and function poorly by locking or popping. If you have continuing pain or locking of this joint, seek evaluation by a dental specialist.
WHAT IS TMD OR TMJ?
TMD is temporomandibular dysfunction. It refers to a myriad of ailments located in the jaw joint, just in front of the ear. If you have TMD, the most common symptoms are pain, locking or joint noise.
WHAT CAUSES TMD OR TMJ?
The most common symptom is pain caused by spasms of the muscles supporting the joint. Other symptoms can include locking of the jaw due to dysfunction of the disc. A myriad of other causes of TMD exist from simple trauma to tumors.
HOW IS TMD OR TMJ TREATED?
In more than 90% of the cases, you can be successfully treated with a specially fitted bite guard for night use. More complex cases can often require more complex treatment.