Temporomandibular joint disease (TMD), a dysfunction of the temporomandibular joint (TMJ), is becoming more of a problem. The disorder causes pain and discomfort in the jaw joint and the muscles that move the jaw.

Many people have pain in their jaw and its muscles, though that does not always signify a problem. Most of the time the pain is temporary and goes away without any help from us.

However, sufferers of TMD have other symptoms. They may have pain in their jaw, face, and even their ears. Many suffer from headaches. Some people even experience pain in their neck and dizziness. Most people complain that they have trouble eating along with an uncomfortable bite.

Most of the time people are able to treat the symptoms by themselves at home. They may use over-the-counter pain relievers along with ice packs to help dull the pain. However, there are times when you need to see a dentist.

Dentists will do a thorough examination and then decide the best way to help you. Mouth guards, worn during sports (when you clench your jaw) or at night (when you grind your teeth), can be very helpful. There are times when surgery or implants may be necessary to help though.

If you are suffering from TMD or think you are, you should start by using pain relievers along with ice packs. If that is not helpful, you may want to contact your dentist and think about getting a mouth guard. You should try to do everything you can to protect your teeth. Plus you shouldn’t have to live in pain because of TMD.