The Chairside Instructor 49 Temporomandibular Disorders (TMD) Other Oral Conditions Two temporomandibular (tem-PORO-man- DIB-u-lar) joints work together in a delicate balance with muscles, ligaments, cartilage and your jaw bones. When problems prevent these parts from working together properly, known as Temporomandibular Disorders (TMD), pain may result. Temporomandibular Disorders (TMD) Signs and symptoms may include: • pain in or around the ear • tender jaw muscles • clicking or popping noises in the jaw • difficulty opening or closing the mouth • pain when yawning or chewing • jaw joints that feel as if they are “locked,” “stuck” or they “go out” • headaches Treatment Options • eating softer foods • avoiding chewing gum • using heat or ice packs to relieve the pain • practicing relaxation techniques to control jaw tension, such as meditation • doing exercises to strengthen your jaw muscles • taking medications prescribed by your dentist • using a night guard or bite plate to decrease clenching or grinding of teeth The Temporomandibular Joint (TMJ) Close-up of TMJ Cartilage Jaw Bone Ligament TMD is a condition, not a specific disease. They are often managed rather than cured.