TMJ Dysfunction

Signs and symptoms of TMJD include:

• Pain in and around the TMJs and surrounding muscles
• Clicking, popping or grinding sounds in the joints
• Difficulty opening the mouth or locking of the jaw
• Earache, headache or neck pain

What causes TMJD?

The cause of TMJD is multifactorial, and includes:

• Injury to the joint
• Grinding (bruxism) and clenching of the teeth, which is often stress-induced
• Parafunctional habits like nail biting
• An abnormal bite or arrangement of the teeth
• Arthritis of the joint

Management of TMJD

Although TMJD can be extremely painful, it can be easily managed with simple self-care practices to do at home. To ease the symptoms, you are advised to:

• Eat a soft diet
• Restrict excessive movements of the jaw e.g. yawning
• Apply heat packs and massage the face
• Take analgesics such as paracetamol or ibuprofen
• Avoid chewing gum or nail biting