TMD or “temporomandibular disorders” refers to a group of conditions, most often painful, that affects the jaw joints (temporomandibular joint AKA tmj) and the associated muscles used in movement of the jaw and neck.

TMD is caused from overuse of the muscles, specifically from clenching or grinding teeth. These excessive habits tire the jaw muscles and can lead to chronic facial or neck pain. TMD is a collection of diseases/disorders (rather than one disorder with a single cause) with a number of causative factors.  TMD is more common in adults than children. However, kids can develop TMD if they fall and hit their chins, or if they have bad habits like clenching their jaws or gritting their teeth.

TMD is a fairly common problem that affects millions of people all over the world. TMD may be caused by genetics or by trauma to the jaw. TMD is rated to be more prevalent in women than in men. Furthermore, the predominance of women seeking treatment for TMD pain is even higher, with a ratio of 4 – 1. TMD is treated on an individual basis and sometimes requires special x-rays.

Temporomandibular

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. Temporomandibular disorder, TMD, is a complex pain syndrome that affects millions of adults each year. For many, the complication leads to the need for management of chronic pain using prescription medications that often result in other secondary health complications. Temporomandibular disorder (TMD), which used to be called temporomandibular joint (TMJ) can cause significant pain in the jaw, popping and clicking of the jaw, headaches or migraines  and overall discomfort. Since so many are afflicted with TMD, much research has been done to alleviate symptoms.