Temporomandibular Disorder (TMD)
Craniomandibular disorder (CMD), also known as temporomandibular disorder (TMD), is a collective term for various clinical symptoms caused by dysfunctions of the temporomandibular joints and masticatory muscles.
Typical complaints associated with TMD include:
- pain in the jaw joints
- facial and headaches
- neck and shoulder pain
- limitations in mouth opening and jaw mobility
Common causes of TMD include:
- chronic stress
- teeth grinding (bruxism)
- dental or jaw misalignments
- traumatic events (e.g., whiplash injuries)
Diagnosis is usually made through clinical examination, supplemented by imaging techniques such as X-rays or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI).
Treatment is often interdisciplinary and may include:
- physical therapy (e.g., manual therapy, physiotherapy)
- splint therapy to relieve the jaw joint
- medication (e.g., pain relievers, muscle relaxants)
- in some cases, orthodontic or surgical interventions
CMD and TMD refer to the same condition, with "TMD" being the more commonly used term in English-speaking countries.