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Worried about temporomandibular disorder?

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This page summarises publicly available NHS information for educational purposes only. It is not medical advice or a diagnosis. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional.

What is temporomandibular disorder?

Temporomandibular disorder (TMD) affects the joint connecting the jaw to the skull, causing pain, clicking, or difficulty opening the mouth. It's often linked to teeth grinding, jaw clenching, stress, or an uneven bite. Most cases improve with self-care — soft foods, jaw exercises, and stress management — but persistent problems may need a dentist or specialist.

When NHS resources suggest seeing a GP

  • You're unable to eat or drink.
  • You have clicking, popping or grinding noises when you move your jaw.
  • You have difficulty opening your mouth fully or your jaw is locking.
  • You have pain around your jaw, ear or at the side of your head.
  • You have frequent, severe headaches.
  • You have pain or tenderness at the side of your head or on the scalp.
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Self-care information from NHS

  • Temporomandibular disorder (TMD) usually gets better without treatment. But there are things you can do to ease the symptoms.
  • Eat soft food, like pasta, omelettes and soup.
  • Take paracetamol or ibuprofen.
  • Hold an ice pack or heat pack wrapped in a tea towel to the jaw, whichever feels better.
  • Massage the painful jaw muscles.
  • Try to find ways to relax.
  • Do not chew gum or pen tops.
  • Do not bite food with your front teeth.

Common questions

How do I know if I have TMD?

Common signs include jaw pain, clicking or popping when opening the mouth, earache without infection, headaches around the temples, and difficulty chewing. A dentist or GP can assess whether TMD is the cause.

Does TMD go away on its own?

Many cases of TMD improve within a few weeks with self-care — eating soft foods, avoiding chewing gum, and reducing stress. If pain persists beyond 4 to 6 weeks or is severe, a dentist may recommend a bite guard or other treatment.

What exercises help TMD?

Gentle jaw-opening, side-to-side, and resistance exercises can ease muscle tension. A physiotherapist or specialist dentist can teach you exercises tailored to your jaw. Avoid hard or chewy foods that strain the joint.

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This page is for informational and educational purposes only. It does not constitute medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional about your individual situation. NorMed organises publicly available NHS information and is not affiliated with the NHS.