Temporomandibular Joint Disorder Treatment

Temporomandibular joint disorder (TMD) is a condition of the jaw (a.k.a. TMJ) that may affect the joint, ligaments, and/or muscles. Dysfunction may be characterized by pain, clicking, abnormal jaw movement, and limited motion. TMD can alter the mechanics of the mouth and limit jaw range of motion, including opening, closing, protrusion, and side to side movement. Poor posture, clenching, or grinding your teeth can contribute to TMD. Often times, those with jaw dysfunction have concurrent neck dysfunction as well, including misalignment, muscle tightness, or weakness. Physical therapy can help improve pain, muscle tightness, jaw movement patterns, jaw mobility, and jaw range of motion, as well as neck underlying neck dysfunction. We may also work with your dentist to determine if the use of an intraoral orthotic could be helpful.