tMJ/tmd

Temporomandibular Disorder (TMD)

Do you suffer from chronic facial and neck pain? Do you frequently get head aches? 

You may be surprised to know that you are not alone and millions of Americans have this very same problem. This pain is due to TMJ or TMD, Temporomandibular Joint Disorder.

Your temporomandibular joints (TMJ) connect your lower jawbone to your skull. You use these joints throughout the day to speak, chew, swallow or yawn. As these joints become irritated or enflamed it can restrict the use of your jaw.

Symptoms of TMD include:

  • Pain in the jaw area
  • Pain, ringing, or stuffiness in the ears
  • Frequent headaches or neck aches
  • Clicking or popping sound when the jaw moves
  • Swelling on the sides of the face
  • Muscle spasms in the jaw area
  • A change in the alignment of top and bottom teeth
  • Locked jaw or limited opening of the mouth


Should you notice any of these symptoms, let Dr. Cynthia Skiba know. Dr. Cynthia Skiba can help indicate the presence of TMD and create an effective treatment for you.


What If you think you have TMD?

There are a few things you can do to help prevent increased irritation to your temporomandibular joints:

  • Relax your face
  • Avoid grinding your teeth
  • Avoid gum chewing
  • Chew food evenly on both sides of your mouth
  • Do not sit with your chin rested on your hand
  • Practice good posture