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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:

• pain around your jaw, ear and temple

• clicking, popping or grinding noises when you move your jaw

• a headache around your temples

• difficulty opening your mouth fully

• 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:

• eat soft food, like pasta, omelettes and soup

• take paracetamol or ibuprofen

• hold ice packs or heat packs to the jaw, whichever feels better

• massage the painful jaw muscles

• try to find ways to relax

Don’t:

• do not chew gum or pen tops

• do not bite food with your front teeth

• do not yawn too wide

• do not bite your nails

• do not clench your teeth – apart from when eating, your teeth should be apart

• do not rest your chin on your hand

Treatments for temporomandibular disorder (TMD) from a GP

The GP may suggest:

• stronger painkillers

• relaxation techniques to reduce stress

• ways to improve your sleep

They might suggest you see:

• a dentist – if teeth grinding might be an issue

• a psychologist – if stress and anxiety are making your pain worse

• 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:

• teeth grinding

• wear and tear of the joint

• a blow to the head or face

• stress

• an uneven bite