Temporomandibular Disorder

Many people who suffer from such seemingly disparate symptoms as headaches, earaches, tenderness of the jaw joints or muscles, or dull aching facial pain often share a common problem These people may suffer from a family of problems related to the jaw muscles and the jaw (temporomandibular, or "TM") joint. These problems are often referred to as TM disorders. The muscles and joints may not function properly, resulting in cycles of pain and spasm. The causes of some TM disorders are not well understood. Because of this, there are varying opinions about diagnosis and treatment of these conditions, some of which are discussed here.

Causes of TM Disorders

    1. Injury to the jaw.
    2. Excessive clenching or grinding of your teeth.

Signs and Symptoms of TM Disorders

TM Disorders have may signs and symptoms. Some of the most common ones include the following:

Pain in or around the ear, sometimes spreading to the face.

Treatment for TM Disorders

Conservative home treatment: 
    1. Ibuproferin-Aleve, Advil, Motrin . . .
    2. Soft diet.
    3. Warm moist heat packs followed with ice packs, alternate for 10-15 minutes several times a day.
    4. Keep your mouth relaxed and teeth apart.
    5. Do this for 1-2 weeks.

Professional treatment:
    1. TMD splint therapy-clear horseshoe shaped plastic appliance to be worn nightly while you are sleeping.