Treating TMD/TMJ

Understanding TMD and jaw pain

If you place your fingers just in front of your ears and gently open and close your mouth, you can feel the temporomandibular joints (TMJs). These joints connect the lower jaw to the skull.

Temporomandibular disorders (TMDs) affect the jaw joints or chewing muscles. Simple, reversible care is usually the starting point. A dentist or medical clinician should assess persistent pain, locking or trouble chewing; evidence does not establish spinal adjustments as a cure for TMD.

Conservative, noninvasive treatment

The National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research recommends starting with simple treatments such as soft foods, heat or cold, and appropriate jaw exercises. Avoid treatments that permanently change the bite or jaw unless a qualified specialist explains why they are needed.

Physical therapy, which may include manual therapy, can be part of treatment for selected people. Any jaw treatment should follow an assessment and be coordinated with dental care. Do not force the jaw open or try to manipulate it yourself.

Symptoms

Problems involving the jaw joint or chewing muscles can cause several symptoms. Painless clicking alone is common and often does not require treatment.

The most common symptoms are:

Dull, aching pain around the ear which may extend to the side and back of the head or down the neck Difficulty or pain when biting, chewing, talking or opening and closing the mouth Clicking, popping or grating sound when opening or closing the mouth Earache Headache Jaw or TMJ pain Locking of the jaw

If these symptoms persist, arrange a dental or medical evaluation. Avoid gum chewing, nail-biting and clenching where possible, and choose foods that are comfortable to chew. Seek prompt care for a locked jaw, facial swelling, fever, injury or inability to eat or drink.

For help evaluating jaw-related neck or muscle discomfort, contact Haywood Spine and Nerve Center in Waynesville at (828) 456-5700. Ask the clinic how to share medical information securely.

Further reading: NIDCR guidance on TMD.