Managing TMD and TMJ: Symptoms, Treatment and Relief
Debunking Myths, Revealing Facts, and Exploring Pain-Reducing Treatments for Temporomandibular Disorders (TMD)
By Brennan Seevers, DPT - Moore MyoWorx Denver
TMD is more common than most believe with 10% of the general population reporting symptoms
Temporomandibular disorders (TMD) encompass a group of over 30 conditions that lead to pain and dysfunction in the temporomandibular joint (TMJ) and the muscles responsible for controlling jaw movement. The TMJ connects the mandible (lower jaw) to the temporal bones of the skull, allowing for movements necessary for chewing, speaking, and facial expressions. Disorders of this joint can result in pain, limited mobility, and audible clicking or popping sounds during jaw movement.
5 Facts vs. Common Myths about TMD:
Myth: TMD is rare
Fact: TMD is actually very common, so much so that on average about 10% of the general population reports symptoms
Myth: TMD can only be treated with medications, mouth guards or surgery
Fact: TMD can be treated through specifically addressing the root cause of the problem - see treatment section below
Myth: TMD is only caused by trauma or teeth grinding
Fact: TMD is often a result of overlapping factors over time. Such as prolonged poor posture, stress, emotional trauma, poor sleep and muscular tension can all contribute to TMD
Myth: TMD happens randomly
Fact: TMD often occurs connected with other symptoms including headaches, sinus pressure, migraines, watery eyes, dizziness and brain fog
Myth: TMD recovery is long and arduous
Fact: Impairment of the nerve powering the muscles of the mouth is typically the cause of TMD and other clustered symptoms. If this root cause is addressed, symptoms can improve rapidly and function can be restored with guidance from a trained clinician
Symptoms of TMD can vary widely among individuals, but common manifestations include jaw pain or tenderness, difficulty or discomfort while chewing, facial pain, and locking of the joint, which can make it challenging to open or close the mouth.
Some people may also experience ear pain, tinnitus (ringing in the ears), and headaches. The severity of symptoms can range from mild discomfort to debilitating pain, significantly impacting a person’s quality of life. The causes of TMD are diverse and often multifactorial. Trauma to the jaw, such as from an accident or injury, can directly damage the temporomandibular joint. Arthritis, which affects joints throughout the body, can also impact the TMJ, leading to inflammation and pain. Jaw alignment issues, congenital or developed over time, can contribute to improper functioning of the joint.
Lifestyle modifications, such as practicing good posture, avoiding excessive chewing, and employing relaxation techniques, can help manage and reduce TMD symptoms.
Treatment for TMD
Treatment for TMD focuses on alleviating pain and restoring normal jaw function, often through a combination of therapies. At Moore Myoworx, we focus on the impairment of the nerve powering the muscles of the mouth which is typically the cause of TMD and other clustered symptoms. If this root cause is addressed, symptoms can improve rapidly and function can be restored with guidance from a trained clinician.
Conservative approaches are typically preferred, beginning with physical therapy to strengthen and relax the jaw muscles, and stress management techniques to reduce tension. Medications such as anti-inflammatory drugs, muscle relaxants, and pain relievers can provide symptomatic relief. Oral appliances, like splints or mouthguards, help to reduce strain on the TMJ and prevent teeth grinding. In more severe cases, surgical options may be explored, although these are usually considered only after other treatments have proven ineffective.
Improving quality of life for individuals with TMD involves both treatment and preventative strategies. Lifestyle modifications, such as practicing good posture, avoiding excessive chewing, and employing relaxation techniques, can help manage and reduce symptoms. Regular dental check-ups are essential for early detection and intervention of issues that might contribute to TMD. Educating patients on proper jaw alignment and methods to minimize stress on the TMJ empowers them to actively manage their condition, potentially preventing symptom progression and enhancing overall jaw health.
ALSO SEE: TMD Awareness: Uncovering 20 Hidden Symptoms Beyond Jaw Pain
If you or someone you know suffers from Temporomandibular Disorders, please share this information with them and encourage them to reach out to us at Moore Myoworx! Contact our team today and we can begin your recovery together.
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Learn about the conditions we specialize in and more about our history and 35+ years of patient successes. Schedule a free introductory session with our Denver clinic today by calling us at (970) 592-8306 or by contacting us here.
Brennan Seevers is the Clinic Director at Moore MyoWorx Denver. He graduated from Bethel College with an undergraduate degree in Exercise Science and received his Doctorate in Physical Therapy from the University of Indianapolis. Brennan takes pride in his holistic approach to the human body and is passionate about understanding each patient's story.
