Temporomandibular disorder (TMD) – or myofascial pain disorder, as it is sometimes termed by doctors – is a common condition affecting an estimated 30 per cent of people at some point in their lives. While it is prevalent, and also temporary and rarely serious, it can nevertheless be extremely uncomfortable, sometimes very painful, and can have a detrimental affect on a person’s life.
What are the symptoms of TMD?
TMD affects the temporomandibular joint (where the jaw meets the base of the skull) and the masticatory (chewing) muscles. Do any of these situations sound familiar to you?
- Your jaw feels tight and may even be difficult to open.
- When you chew you hear clicks and grating noises.
- You feel muscle pain around your jaw.
- There is a pain in front of your ear and it is spreading towards your temple, cheek or ear.
- You are getting headaches or migraines.
- You are suffering from earache, dizziness, tinnitus or a buzzing or blocked sensation.
If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, you may have TMD so do make an appointment with your GP. They may refer you to a prosthodontist such as Dr Farid Monibi who is based at specialist dental practice 76 Harley Street in central London.
What can be done?
In the first instance, your GP may recommend a range of lifestyle and physiotherapy-type measures including the application of a warm compress to the area and jaw exercises. Extra help can come in the form of specially fitted mouth guards. At our specialist dental practice, we are very experienced in the treatment of temporomandibular disorder, offering our London patients relief from their TMJ pain with no resulting damage to the teeth. During a consultation with one of our highly experienced prosthodontists, you will discuss the best options for your individual case and plan your treatment.
