TMD and Occlusion Treatment

Temporomandibular disorders (TMDs) are a group of conditions affecting the jaw joints, joint discs, chewing muscles, or causing headaches associated with jaw function. TMDs are generally classified into three main categories:

1. Disorders of the temporomandibular joints, including disc disorders

2. Disorders of the muscles used for chewing

3. Headaches associated with TMD

The exact cause of TMD is often unclear. Symptoms may develop from a combination of factors, including genetics, psychological or life stress, injury, muscle tension, fatigue, clenching, or teeth grinding. Current research does not support malocclusion or orthodontic braces as established direct causes of TMD.

Symptoms to look out for

• Pain or tenderness in the jaw joints or chewing muscles

• Pain spreading to the face, ears, temples, head, or neck

• Difficulty or pain while chewing

• Jaw stiffness, limited movement, or locking

• Painful clicking, popping, or grinding during jaw movement

• Tinnitus, dizziness, changes in hearing, or a change in the way the teeth fit together

Jaw clicking without pain or restricted movement is common and usually does not require treatment. An assessment is recommended when clicking is painful, the jaw becomes locked, or the symptoms interfere with eating and daily activities.

Myofascial pain and TMD

Myofascial pain is a common form of TMD involving the chewing muscles. It may result from muscle tension, fatigue, inflammation, or spasm and can be aggravated by clenching or teeth grinding. Symptoms may include pain around the jaw, ear, or temple, headaches, and clicking or grinding sounds during jaw movement.

Treatment approach

Treatment usually begins with conservative options tailored to the patient’s symptoms. These may include pain-relieving medication, muscle-relaxation techniques, modification of clenching and grinding habits, and oral appliances. The goals are to relieve pain, improve jaw movement, and restore comfortable daily function.

Open joint surgery should be considered carefully because long-term research on its safety and effectiveness in relieving TMD symptoms remains limited.

According to records collected by the clinic, patients aged 24–80 have been treated for TMD over more than 35 years, with a reported treatment success rate of 99%.