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TMJ disorders

• Overview
• Symptoms
• Treatment
• Prevention

Alternative Names:

TMD; Temporomandibular joint disorders

Prevention:

Many of the home-care steps to treat TMJ problems can prevent such problems in the first place:

• Maintain good posture, especially if you work all day at a computer. Pause frequently to change position, rest your hands and arms, and relieve stressed muscles.
• Learn relaxation techniques to reduce overall stress and muscle tension.
• Avoid eating hard foods and chewing gum.
• Drink plenty of water every day and get plenty of sleep.
• Use safety measures to reduce the risk of fractures and dislocations.

References:

American Dental Association. TMD/TMJ (temporomandibular disorders). Available at: http://www.ada.org/public/topics/tmd_tmj.asp .

Lobbezoo F. Topical review: new insights into the pathology and diagnosis of disorders of the temporomandibular joint. J Orofac Pain . 2004; 18(3): 181-191.

Simons DC, Travell JG. Myofascial Pain and Dysfunction: The Trigger Point Manual. Vol. 1. Upper Half of the Body . 2nd Ed. Atlanta, GA: Emory University;1998.

• Review Date: 5/16/2006
• Reviewed By: Johanna Jacobs, D.D.S., General and Cosmetic Dentistry, New York, NY. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.

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