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TMD and Temporomandibular Joint Dysfunction

The jaw joint is formally known as the temporomandibular joint, or TMJ. When there are problems with the jaw, this is known as TMD, which stands for temporomandibular joint disorder or temporomandibular joint dysfunction.

TMD symptoms are caused by swelling of the jaw muscles that lead to jaw joint problems. The most common symptoms of TMD include jaw popping or clicking, having a hard time opening or closing your mouth, a sore jaw, and even headaches.

TMD treatment can take many forms. Doing jaw exercises and eating soft foods can help relieve TMD pain, and pain relievers can reduce inflammation. A TMD dentist can prescribe a dental guard to wear at night to reduce teeth grinding. The most serious cases may call for TMD injections or TMD surgery.

+Jim Du Molin is a leading Internet search expert helping individuals and families connect with the right dentist in their area. Visit his author page.

What Is TMJ?

Jaw pain and jaw problems are the hallmarks of TMJ disorder. But first, it's important to understand the difference between two abbreviations: TMJ and TMD.

The temporomandibular joint (jaw joint) is abbreviated TMJ. Everyone has two TMJs, one on the left and one on the right, that hold the jaw (mandible) in place. The TMJ itself is a normal part of every healthy body.

On the other hand, TMD is not normal. TMD stands for temporomandibular joint disorder (TMJ disorder or dysfunction). The cause of TMJ dysfunction is not always clear. However, certain factors are associated with increased TMJ symptoms, including:

• Teeth grinding or jaw clenching, especially at night (a condition known as bruxism)
• Jaw dislocation or another jaw injury
• Arthritis or other joint problems
• Stress

These are among the most common symptoms of TMJ:

• Popping jaw or clicking jaw
• Sore jaw
• TMJ headache (a TMJ headache feels very different from TMJ jaw pain)

TMJ dentists and other TMJ specialists can offer a range of treatments for TMJ.

+Jim Du Molin is a leading Internet search expert helping individuals and families connect with the right dentist in their area. Visit his author page.