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Temporomandibular disorder (TMD): Areas of pain

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Areas of pain from TMD, with detail of TM joint showing articular disc, muscle, and lower jawbone.

Temporomandibular disorder (TMD) causes pain in the muscles and joints that connect the lower jawbone (mandible) to the skull. These flexible muscles and joints are right in front of the ears. They are needed to talk, chew, swallow, and yawn.

Pain and tension in the muscles around the TM joint can cause tension in the muscles of the face, head, neck, and shoulders. Muscle tension may also cause headaches.

Current as of: July 31, 2024

Author: Ignite Healthwise, LLC Staff
Clinical Review Board
All Healthwise education is reviewed by a team that includes physicians, nurses, advanced practitioners, registered dieticians, and other healthcare professionals.

Current as of: July 31, 2024

Author: Ignite Healthwise, LLC Staff

Clinical Review Board
All Healthwise education is reviewed by a team that includes physicians, nurses, advanced practitioners, registered dieticians, and other healthcare professionals.

Current as of: July 31, 2024

Author: Ignite Healthwise, LLC Staff

Clinical Review Board
All Healthwise education is reviewed by a team that includes physicians, nurses, advanced practitioners, registered dieticians, and other healthcare professionals.

The Health Encyclopedia contains general health information. Not all treatments or services described are covered benefits for Kaiser Permanente members or offered as services by Kaiser Permanente. For a list of covered benefits, please refer to your Evidence of Coverage or Summary Plan Description. For recommended treatments, please consult with your health care provider.