TMJ | TMD
Jaw pain, facial discomfort, and frequent headaches can interfere with daily life. In some cases, these symptoms are related to temporomandibular disorder, commonly known as TMD. At Dr. Doug Orthodontics, we help patients understand how jaw function, bite alignment, and overall oral health may play a role in comfort and long-term stability.
What Is Temporomandibular Disorder (TMD)?
Temporomandibular disorder affects the temporomandibular joints, or TMJs, which connect the lower jaw to the skull. These joints are used constantly throughout the day for speaking, chewing, swallowing, and yawning. When the joints or surrounding muscles are strained or not functioning properly, discomfort and restricted movement can occur.
What Are Common Symptoms of TMD?
Symptoms of TMD can vary from person to person and may include jaw pain or tenderness, ear discomfort or ringing, frequent headaches or neck pain, clicking or popping sounds when moving the jaw, muscle tightness or spasms, changes in how the teeth fit together, or difficulty opening the mouth fully.
If you notice any of these symptoms, it is important to mention them to your dentist or healthcare provider so they can determine whether further evaluation is needed.
Can Orthodontic Treatment Help With TMD?
Not all jaw pain is related to TMD, and orthodontic treatment is not considered a primary treatment for temporomandibular disorders. In most cases, TMD symptoms tend to fluctuate over time, whether or not braces are worn.
In very specific situations, orthodontic treatment that improves bite alignment may help reduce uneven forces on the jaw and provide some improvement in comfort. Any jaw symptoms should always be discussed with your dentist or orthodontist before starting orthodontic treatment.
Is All Jaw Pain Caused by TMD?
No. Jaw discomfort can be caused by many factors, including muscle tension, stress, posture habits, teeth grinding, or clenching. If TMD is ruled out, there are preventive steps that may help reduce strain on the jaw and support a healthy bite.
Helpful habits include keeping the lips together while allowing the teeth to rest apart, avoiding grinding or clenching, limiting gum chewing, maintaining good posture, chewing evenly on both sides of the mouth, and avoiding resting the chin on the hand.
When Should I Seek Professional Evaluation?
If jaw pain, facial discomfort, or headaches persist or worsen, a professional evaluation is recommended. Your dentist can assess your symptoms and determine whether TMD is present or if referral to a specialist, such as an orthodontist or oral surgeon, is appropriate.
Patients are welcome to schedule a consultation at Dr. Doug Orthodontics to discuss bite-related concerns and understand whether orthodontic care may play a role in overall jaw function.
Frequently Asked Questions
Jaw and facial discomfort can raise many questions. These FAQs provide helpful information to better understand TMD and when to seek care.
What Causes TMD?
TMD can be caused by a combination of factors, including muscle tension, jaw strain, teeth grinding, stress, injury, or bite-related issues. In many cases, no single cause is identified.
Can Braces Cause or Worsen TMD?
Orthodontic treatment is rarely the cause of TMD. In most cases, symptoms change over time regardless of whether braces are worn.
Should I See a Dentist or Orthodontist for Jaw Pain?
Your dentist is typically the first provider to evaluate jaw pain. If needed, they may refer you to an orthodontist or another specialist for further assessment.
Can Bite Alignment Affect Jaw Comfort?
In some cases, uneven bite forces can contribute to jaw strain. Improving bite alignment may help reduce stress on the jaw for certain patients.
What Can I Do at Home to Reduce Jaw Strain?
Avoid clenching or grinding, practice good posture, limit gum chewing, chew evenly, and allow your jaw to rest with teeth slightly apart when possible.