What is TMD?
TMD is a Cycle
Temporomandibular disorder, known as TMD is a cycle of pain, muscle spasms, and joint imbalance where the jaw meets the skull. The lower jaw meets the skull at the temporomandibular joint, known as the TMJ. This joint connects the temporal bone of the skull with the mandible bone of the jaw. Cushioning these two bones is a thin disc of cartilage. Five muscles support the joint.
Breaking the Cycle
To restore balance to the joint, we can crown teeth, fill spaces, adjust the bite using a procedure called equilibration, or even add more teeth. A Splint, which is a plastic mouthpiece, can reduce clenching and grinding, which will also help restore harmony to the joint. In extremely severe cases, surgery may be necessary to repair the damaged part of the joint.
Possible symptoms of TMD
Headaches
Earaches
Difficulty opening and closing your mouth
A clicking or popping in the joint
A dull aching pain around the ear that spreads into the face
Sore or painful jaw muscles