Temporomandibular Disorders
Source: MedlinePlus Health Topics, U.S. National Library of Medicine
What are temporomandibular disorders (TMDs)? Temporomandibular disorders (TMDs) are a group of more than 30 conditions that affect your temporomandibular joints (TMJs). You have two TMJs; one on each side of your jaw. They connect your lower jaw to your skull. TMDs can cause problems in your jaw joint and your muscles that control jaw movement. These problems can include pain, stiffness, and trouble chewing. There are three main types of TMDs: Disorders of your jaw joints Disorders of the muscles you use for chewing Headaches from a TMD Many TMDs last only a short time and go away on their own. However, in some cases they can become chronic (long lasting) What causes temporomandibular disorders (TMDs)? Sometimes an injury to the jaw or TMJ can cause a TMD. But in most cases, the cause is not known. Research suggests that certain factors may play a role in why a TMD starts and whether it will be long lasting: Genetics Psychological and life stressors How someone perceives pain Who is more likely to develop a temporomandibular disorder (TMD)? Anyone can develop a TMD, but it is more common in women than in men. It is most common in women between 35 and 44 years old. What are the symptoms of temporomandibular disorders (TMDs)? The symptoms of TMDs may include: Pain in the chewing muscles and/or jaw joint. This is the most common symptom. Pain that spreads to the face or neck. Jaw stiffness. Limited movement or locking of the jaw. Painful clicking or popping in your jaw joint when you open or close your mouth. However, clicking or popping without pain is common and is not a sign of a TMD. Tinnitus (ringing in the ears), hearing loss , or dizziness . A change in the way the upper and lower teeth fit together. How are temporomandibular disorders (TMDs) diagnosed? There is no standard test used to diagnose TMDs, and some other conditions can cause some similar symptoms. This can make TMDs hard to diagnose. To find out if you have a TMD, your health care provider or dentist