Occlusal splints can be
used to treat TMDs
TMDs, or temporomandibular disorders, can cause a number of symptoms that can mimic
other diseases. You may have a TMD – any one of a number of problems involving
the chewing muscles, the jaw joint (the temporomandibular joint, or TMJ) or both.
Symptoms can include the following:
Unusual sounds – Clicking, grinding or popping, may or may not be accompanied
by increased pain. Popping or clicking in the jaw joint is frequently indicative
of a displaced disc, which may not require treatment.
Locking or intermittent movement – The jaw joint, a ball-and-socket joint,
may sometimes lock in an open position. Or if may be difficult to open your mouth
because it feels locked or painful.
Ear pain – TMD may at first appear to be an ear infection, since TMD pain
is usually felt in front of or below the ear.