Could Your Symptoms Be Related to TMD?
In the first article, we explored the difference between the terms temporomandibular joint (TMJ) and temporomandibular disorders (TMD). The TMJs are the hinge-like joints on either side of your face that connect your lower jaw to your skull. TMD is an umbrella term used to describe a group of conditions that affect the function of the TMJs, the muscles that control jaw movement, and the surrounding structures.
So now you might be wondering whether what you are experiencing could be related to a TMD. Let's explore the common signs and symptoms of TMD and when it may be appropriate to seek a professional assessment.
TMD Doesn't Look the Same for Everyone
Not everyone experiences TMD in the same way. TMD can present with a range of symptoms, some of which are more obviously associated with the jaw than others. For example, symptoms such as jaw pain, clicking or locking may make you think of the TMJs, whereas headaches or symptoms affecting the ears may not seem as obviously connected. The location and severity of symptoms can also vary, and not everyone with a TMD will experience pain or the same combination of symptoms.
Common Signs and Symptoms of TMD
The first group of symptoms are experienced in and around the jaw itself. These include the jaw locking, the jaw joint popping or clicking, pain in the TMJ or chewing muscles, limited jaw movement, and clenching or grinding of the teeth.[1]
The second group of symptoms may be experienced around the head, face and ears. These can include temporal headaches (headaches experienced around the temple area), facial or preauricular pain (pain in front of the ear), ear pain and tinnitus.[2]
The next group of symptoms can affect the neck and shoulders, with pain in these areas commonly associated with TMD. Interestingly, recent research suggests that this relationship may work in both directions: TMD may be linked to an increased likelihood of experiencing neck and shoulder pain, while the reverse may also be true.[3]
Another group of common symptoms relates to everyday functions that involve the jaw. TMD can make chewing and eating more difficult, particularly where pain or restricted jaw movement is involved.[4] Jaw fatigue can also occur, with the muscles involved in jaw movement becoming tired or overloaded with use.[5] Finally, TMD can be associated with difficulties with speech and with jaw movement during speaking.[6]
Symptoms Can Overlap with Other Conditions
Although these symptoms can be associated with TMD, experiencing them does not necessarily mean that TMD is the cause.
For example, dental pain can sometimes mimic the pain associated with TMD.[7] TMD is also associated with ear-related symptoms, including ear pain (otalgia), a feeling of fullness in the ear, tinnitus, vertigo and hearing loss, even when there is no primary ear disease. These symptoms can therefore sometimes be mistaken for an ear condition.[8]
What is interesting about both the dental and ear examples is that the location of the pain or symptoms does not necessarily identify their source.
When Should You Seek Professional Advice?
Although many of the symptoms discussed in this article can be associated with TMD, there are times when it is particularly important to seek professional advice. This includes if your jaw becomes locked or you are unable to fully open or close your mouth, if you notice a sudden change in your bite, or if pain is significantly affecting your ability to eat or drink.[9]
If you experience facial swelling accompanied by fever or difficulty swallowing or breathing, you should seek urgent medical attention.
Conclusion
TMD is relatively common, and there is a fascinating and growing body of research in this area. As we have explored, TMD doesn't look the same for everyone, and it can sometimes be difficult to work out whether you have a TMD, particularly as some of the symptoms associated with TMD can also occur with other conditions. Where pain is experienced doesn't necessarily tell us where that pain originates.
In the next article, I'll explore why TMD develops, and some of the different factors that may contribute to it.
References
[1] Durham J, Newton-John TR, Zakrzewska JM. Temporomandibular disorders. BMJ. 2015 Mar 12;350:h1154.
[2] ibid
[3] Du SS, Hu YY, Niu YM. Associations between temporomandibular disorders/bruxism and head and neck pains: a bidirectional Mendelian randomization study. J Oral Facial Pain Headache. 2025 Dec;39(4):122-137. doi: 10.22514/jofph.2025.070. Epub 2025 Dec 12. PMID: 41436110; PMCID: PMC12727188.
[4] The TMJ Association. TMD Nutrition and You. Available at: TMJ Association – TMD Nutrition and You
[5] University of Bristol Dental School. Temporomandibular joint (TMJ) dysfunction. Available at: University of Bristol Dental School
[6] Pereira TC, Brasolotto AG, Conti PCR, Berretin-Felix G. Temporomandibular disorders, voice and oral quality of life in women. Journal of Applied Oral Science. 2009;17(Special Issue):50–56. doi:10.1590/S1678-77572009000700009.
[7] Wright EF. Pulpalgia contributing to temporomandibular disorder-like pain: a literature review and case report. Journal of the American Dental Association. 2008;139(4):436–440. doi:10.14219/jada.archive.2008.0186.
[8] Ebrahimi F, Akbar A, Jin V, Kaul VF, Pearl CB. Otologic Manifestations of Temporomandibular Disorders. Diagnostics. 2026;16(12):1757. doi:10.3390/diagnostics16121757.
[9] NHS. Temporomandibular disorder (TMD). Available at: NHS – Temporomandibular disorder (TMD)
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