TMD Symptoms

TEMPOROMANDIBULAR DISORDERS (TMD) are a common subgroup of orofacial pain disorders, often incorrectly referred to as "TMJ".  TMJ is the commonly used abbreviation for Temporomandibular joint or jaw joint.  There are two basic types of TMD: MYOGENOUS TMD (muscle generated pain) and ARTHROGENOUS TMD (jaw joint generated pain).
 
TMD SYMPTOMS include pain or discomfort in or around the ear, jaw joint, and/or muscles of the jaw, face, temples and neck on one or both sides.  The pain may arise suddenly or progress over months to years with intermittent frequency and intensity.  Clicking, popping, grating (crepitus), locking, limited or deviant jaw opening and chewing difficulties are also associated with TMD.
 


An estimated 75% of the U.S. population have experienced one or more signs or symptoms of TMD.  Most TMD symptoms are temporary and fluctuate over time, requiring little or no professional intervention.  An estimated 5-10% of the U.S. population will require professional treatment.  TMD usually involves more than a single symptom and rarely has a single cause.
 
 

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© 2004 Temporomandibular Disorders and Orofacial Pain. American Academy of Orofacial Pain. All rights reserved.
Edited by Stephen J. Harkins, D.D.S., P.C.
Illustrations by Michaela Todd