What is TMD Treatment?
What is TMD
Tempero-Mandibular Disorder
● Malfunction of the Tempero-Mandibular Joint
Symptoms:
● Pain upon opening/closing, chewing, talking
● Headaches/migraines
● Lock jaw
● Limited movement of jaw
● Clicking/popping/grating of jaw
● Many more
Causes:
● Posture of neck and tongue
● Stress – causing clenching and grinding
● Alignment of teeth/jaw
● Habits (nail/pen biting)
Treatment
Night Guard/ NTI:
● This will help protect your teeth from the effects of clenching/grinding
○ OTC/DIY are good for testing your sleep
○ In-office/professionally have the best material
Stress Relief:
● Breathing techniques
● Vagus nerve stimulation
○ Humming
○ Gargling water
TIP:
● Set reminder on phone periodically throughout day
○ To catch self if clenching throughout day
○ Incorperate deep breaths to relieve stress
Tongue Posture:
● Placement of tongue helps alleviate fatigued muscles of the jaw
● Tongue should be suctioned and pressed upon palate.
● Tip of tongue should be placed on the ledge behind your top front teeth
○ If your tongue presses on the teeth themself, it will push the teeth out
● Try saying the word “no” or “never” to get tongue placement
Exercises:
● Here are some exercises you can do to strengthen your tongue + jaw muscles
