Temporomandibular disorder (TMD)
Overview
Temporomandibular disorder (TMD) is a condition affecting the movement of the jaw. It's not usually serious and generally gets better on its own.
Symptoms
Symptoms of TMD include: pain around your jaw, ear and templeclicking, popping or grinding noises when you move your jawa headache around your templesdifficulty opening your mouth fullyyour jaw locking when you open your mouth The pain may be worse when chewing and when you feel stressed. TMD can also stop you getting a good night's sleep.
Causes
Temporomandibular disorder (TMD) can be caused by: teeth grindingwear and tear of the jointa blow to the head or facestressan uneven bite
Treatment
The GP may suggest: stronger painkillersrelaxation techniques to reduce stressways to improve your sleep They might suggest you see: a dentist, if teeth grinding might be an issuea psychologist, if stress and anxiety are making your pain worsea physiotherapist, for advice about jaw exercises and massage If these treatments do not help, you may be referred to a specialist in joint problems to discuss other options, such as painkilling injections or surgery.