TMD - Temporomandibular Joint Dysfunction
What are the symptoms of TMD?
Symptoms can involve the TM joint alone or more commonly are associated with other areas in the head, neck and jaw, mostly the muscles in these areas.
Common symptoms might be:
- Pain in the TMJ and surrounding areas
- Unexplained headaches or facial pain
- Clicking, popping or grating noises in the TMJs
- Limited mouth opening or movement
- Difficulty or pain with chewing
- Pain in or around the ears or ear stuffiness
- Sinus or eye pain
- Neck and shoulder pain
What is orofacial pain?
Orofacial pain may be discomfort or pain in the face, head, jaw, neck or even the teeth which is of an abnormal nature. This can be a muscular or a neurologic type pain of the head and face or toothache like pain in an otherwise normal condition. Sometimes TMD may be more of an orofacial pain condition that requires specific attention and care.
What about headaches?
As a dentist I can help you with determining if your headaches are related to muscle pain, TMD, or orofacial pain. If the Headaches are related to the head and neck area, often I can provide some degree of assistance in treating them. If they are more complex or require a team approach, I can help direct you to others who may also be helpful.
How is a diagnosis established?
To arrive at a diagnosis a complete history and a head and neck evaluation is performed. X-rays may also be necessary. Once all of the information is collected a diagnosis is made. Following the exam a consultation is done to review the findings and a treatment plan is established. Consultation with and/or referral to other health care providers may also be necessary or recommended.
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