TMD (TMJ) is an umbrella name for a number of different conditions all involving the jaw joint and its muscles. It is not a diagnosis

They are a set of diseases or disorders related to the function, structure and physiology of the jaw joint, its muscles and occasionally, the nerves that control them. They may also be associated with other systemic or medical pain conditions.

We cannot be absolutely sure of the cause. As there are a number of different conditions, there are probably a number of different factors causing them. Stress and parafunction such as clenching and grinding are strong contenders but for each patient there may well be other factors such as hormones, certain medications, certain systemic diseases, the anatomy of the jaw joint and its mobility.

Because we are not absolutely sure of the causes in each individual, the advice is to use reversible procedures so we avoid surgery (unless absolutely indicated) and other invasive treatments such as grinding teeth. Treatment can vary from simple explanation and relaxation exercises, to the use of splints, TENS, ultra sound, laser therapy physiotherapy, injections into joint or muscles, medication and then various forms of surgical intervention where absolutely indicated. All this depends on the diagnosis.

As many as 65-85 percent of the United States population will experience some signs and symptoms of TMJD within their lifetime. Approximately 35 million people in the United States suffer from TMJ problems. Similar to other pain conditions, TMJDs affects women two times more than men, and is most prevalent between the ages of 20-40.

Millions suffer from chronic fatigue syndrome, endometriosis, fibromyalgia, interstitial cystitis, irritable bowel syndrome, temporomandibular joint and muscle disorders, and vulvodynia. Current research indicates that these conditions frequently coexist or ‘overlap,’ yet all of the disorders are poorly understood.