Temporomandibular Joint Dysfunction (TMD)
The term TMD unites clinical problems related to the masticatory (chewing) muscles, the temporomandibular joint or both structures. Problems can be acute or chronic, and usually result from inflammation of the jaw and/or the muscles used to chew.
Typical symptoms of TMD include:
- Jaw pain or tenderness
- Discomfort when biting or chewing
- Clicking or popping of the temporomandibular joint
- Headaches/migraines
- Earaches
- Limited opening/closing of the jaw
- Neck and shoulder pain
Common causes of TMD include:
- Bruxism (grinding or clenching teeth)
- Excessive chewing of gum
- Blunt trauma to the face or jaw
- Arthritis (degenerative joint disease)
- Myofascial Pain Syndrome (MPS)
- Neurological disease
- Malocclusion (misalignment of teeth)
There are many treatments for TMD, ranging from behavior modification to surgery, and Dr. Bickley can help assess your symptoms and recommend the best course of treatment.
