ATTENTION

If you or someone you know is experiencing a mental health crisis, call 988 for 24/7 free and confidential crisis support. You do not have to be suicidal to call. Access more info and resources on suicide prevention, emotional and mental health support. 
toggle mobile menu Menu
toggle search menu

Site Navigation

Supplemental

Menu

Temporomandibular disorder (TMD): Areas of pain

Top of the page

Temporomandibular disorder (TMD): Areas of pain

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: March 9, 2022

Author: Healthwise Staff
Medical Review:
Adam Husney MD - Family Medicine
Martin J. Gabica MD - Family Medicine

This information does not replace the advice of a doctor. Healthwise, Incorporated disclaims any warranty or liability for your use of this information. Your use of this information means that you agree to the Terms of Use. Healthwise is a URAC accredited health web site content provider. Privacy Policy. How this information was developed to help you make better health decisions.

To learn more, visit Healthwise.org

© 1995- Healthwise, Incorporated. Healthwise, Healthwise for every health decision, and the Healthwise logo are trademarks of Healthwise, Incorporated.

Take Care, Someone Needs You.

You take care of others, so take care of yourself. Let us be your partner in health, whether you're recovering from an injury, checking in for your annual exam, or enjoying an online class.

Because when you take care of yourself, everyone around you benefits.

Connect with Us
Contact Us In Boise (208) 381-2222