
(TMD) Joint Dysfunction
Temporomandibular disorder (TMD) is a condition affecting the movement of the jaw. It's not usually serious and generally gets better on its own.
Check if you have temporomandibular disorder (TMD)
Signs of TMD include:
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pain around your jaw, ear and temple
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clicking, popping or grinding noises when you move your jaw
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a headache around your temples
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difficulty opening your mouth fully
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your jaw locking when you open your mouth
The pain may be worse when chewing and when you feel stressed.
TMD can also stop you getting a good night's sleep.
How to ease temporomandibular disorder (TMD) yourself
There are some simple things you can do to try to reduce your jaw pain.
Do:
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eat soft food, like pasta, omelettes and soup
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take paracetamol or ibuprofen
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hold ice packs or heat packs to the jaw, whichever feels better
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massage the painful jaw muscles
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try to find ways to relax
Don’t:
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do not chew gum or pen tops
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do not bite food with your front teeth
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do not yawn too wide
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do not bite your nails
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do not clench your teeth – apart from when eating, your teeth should be apart
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do not rest your chin on your hand
Treatments for temporomandibular disorder (TMD) from a GP
The GP may suggest:
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stronger painkillers
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relaxation techniques to reduce stress
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ways to improve your sleep
They might suggest you see:
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a dentist – if teeth grinding might be an issue
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a psychologist – if stress and anxiety are making your pain worse
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a physiotherapist – for advice about jaw exercises and massage
If these treatments do not help, you may be referred to a specialist in joint problems to discuss other options, such as painkilling injections or surgery.
Causes of temporomandibular disorder (TMD)
TMD can be caused by:
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teeth grinding
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wear and tear of the joint
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a blow to the head or face
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stress
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an uneven bite