The temporomandibular joint connects the jawbone to your skull on each side of your face. It acts like a sliding hinge that lets you move your jaw up and down and side to side, so you can talk, chew, and yawn. If you have problems with your jaw and the muscles in your face that control your jaw, it is called a temporomandibular disorder or TMD, which is often confused with the name of the joint, TMJ.
TMD can result from injury to your jaw, the joint, or the muscles of your head and neck. Other causes may include grinding and clenching teeth, arthritis, and stress. TMD can cause severe pain and discomfort and may be temporary, or last for many years. It can also affect one or both sides of your face.
Symptoms of TMD may include pain or tenderness in your face, jaw, neck, shoulders, and ear when you open your mouth to speak or chew. You may have difficulty opening your mouth wide or hear a clicking, popping, or grating sound when you open or close your mouth. Swelling on the side of your face may also appear, and you may have trouble chewing your food. Headaches, toothaches, earaches, and dizziness are also possible.
In addition to making an appointment to see your doctor, there are things you can do at home to relieve your pain. Alternating ice and heat to the side of your face, eating soft foods, and avoiding extreme jaw movements may help. You can also safely apply Milkweed Balm along the jawline as often as needed to relieve pain naturally. Filled with Omega 7 fatty acids, anti-inflammatory agents, and antioxidants, Milkweed Balm helps to alleviate pain topically. Only a small amount is needed to get the job done!