TMD

TMD most often stands for temporomandibular joint disorder, a collective term for conditions that affect the temporomandibular joint (TMJ) and the muscles involved in jaw movement. These conditions can cause pain in the jaw area, face, neck, or ear, as well as limited jaw opening, jaw stiffness, and sounds such as clicking or grinding during movement. Symptoms may be intermittent or persistent and can be worsened by chewing, stress, or jaw clenching.

Causes are usually multifactorial and may include bite misalignment, bruxism (teeth grinding), jaw injury, arthritis, and psychosocial factors such as stress. Poor posture and prolonged mouth opening, such as during dental procedures, can contribute.

Diagnosis relies on clinical examination and history, with imaging studies such as panoramic radiographs, MRI, or CT used to assess joint structures when needed. Differential diagnosis includes dental problems, sinus issues, and other craniofacial conditions.

Treatment is typically conservative at first and may include a soft or blended diet, heat or ice therapy, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, physical therapy, jaw exercises, and occlusal splints or night guards. Behavioral strategies, stress management, and posture correction can help. In persistent or structural cases, treatments to restore occlusion, orthodontic approaches, or surgical options such as arthroscopy or joint replacement may be considered.

Prognosis varies; many individuals improve with conservative care, while others have persistent or recurrent symptoms. Research continues into mechanisms such as central sensitization and into improved imaging and rehabilitation strategies.

Other uses of the acronym exist in different fields, but this article focuses on temporomandibular disorder.