Dental Encyclopedia · TMJ
Temporomandibular Disorder (TMD)
Temporomandibular Disorder
Temporomandibular disorder (TMD) is a condition in which pain or functional problems arise in the jaw joint and the surrounding chewing muscles. It is known to present as sounds when opening the mouth, pain, or limited mouth opening.
In plain terms
Put simply, it is a state in which the joint and muscles that move the jaw develop a problem, causing pain or sounds. Not being able to open the mouth wide, clicking sounds, and pain around the jaw and ear are common.
Temporomandibular disorder is known to arise from a combination of several factors, such as grinding and clenching, stress, trauma, malocclusion and poor habits (resting the chin on the hand, chewing on one side). It is sometimes accompanied by headache and pain around the ear.
Treatment mostly begins with conservative methods (occlusal stabilization splint, physiotherapy, medication, correcting lifestyle habits) and is approached in stages according to the symptoms and the cause. Planning it after assessing the cause with CBCT and similar examinations is known to help.
Related treatments
Related terms
Frequently asked questions
- Q. If my jaw makes a sound when I open my mouth, does it need treatment?
- There are cases where there is only a sound without pain, but it is known that when pain, limited mouth opening or frequent sounds accompany it, temporomandibular disorder may be suspected. Most cases are known to be managed with conservative treatment, and the approach varies with the cause and the degree, so we advise you after diagnosis.
This entry is for general information. Diagnosis and treatment depend on individual conditions.