What causes TMD?
Dental professionals agree that severe injury to the jaw area is a definite cause of TMD. A facial blow can result in a fractured jaw or a damaged disc; this in turn results in a disruption of the jaw’s movement, causing pain and jaw locking. The scientific community is in disagreement as to the other causes of TMD. Most experts currently believe that it’s a combination of behavioral, psychological and physical factors that brings on the symptoms associated with TMD. Symptoms of TMD You should not be alarmed by occasional, temporary discomfort in your jaw joint or chewing muscles; this is quite common and is usually not a cause for concern. However, you should call our office for an evaluation if: you experience a radiating pain in your face, neck or shoulders there is a painful grating, popping or clicking noise in your jaw joint when you open and close your mouth your jaw movement is limited, or your jaw locks open there is a significant, sudden change in the way your upper and lower
