Craniomandibular Dysfunction (CMD): More than just grinding your teeth

Craniomandibular dysfunction (CMD), a disorder in the area of the temporomandibular joint that can cause a variety of symptoms. As an ENT specialist, I also deal with the diagnosis and treatment of CMD patients. In the following text you will learn more about the causes, symptoms and possible therapy options for CMD.

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Craniomandibular dysfunction (CMD) is a disorder of the jaw and skull that can cause a variety of symptoms. As an ENT specialist, I also deal with this topic, since CMD can cause symptoms such as headaches and neck pain, tinnitus or hearing disorders.

Causes of CMD can be very different. Physical factors such as incorrect loading of the jaw or an incorrect bite position can promote CMD. Misaligned teeth or excessive stress on the jaw caused by grinding or clenching teeth can also trigger CMD. Psychological factors such as stress or anxiety can also play a role.

The symptoms of CMD can be very diverse and also vary from person to person. Common complaints are pain in the head, neck and jaw area, tinnitus, dizziness or hearing disorders. Cracking or gnashing of the jaw joint can also be a sign of CMD.

In order to diagnose CMD, a detailed status assessment and a clinical examination are necessary. Among other things, the jaw function is checked and, if necessary, an X-ray or MRT examination is carried out. An examination at a dentist in Vienna can also be useful.

The treatment of CMD depends on the individual cause and the symptoms of the patient. In many cases, measures such as relaxation exercises, physiotherapy or splint therapy are recommended. A change in eating habits or a change in the bite position through orthodontic treatment can also be useful.

It is estimated that around 5-12% of the population is affected by CMD symptoms. Women are affected more often than men.

As an ENT specialist, I can also provide support in the treatment of CMD symptoms. For example, targeted treatment of hearing disorders or tinnitus can improve the symptoms. Effective treatment of CMD can also be achieved by working together with orthodontists and dental technicians.

It’s important to take CMD symptoms seriously and diagnose them early. Untreated CMD can lead to chronic pain and hearing loss. If you suffer from symptoms such as headaches, neck pain or hearing problems, CMD could be the cause. You are welcome to make an appointment in my practice to discuss an exact diagnosis and individual treatment options.

Sources:

  • Deutsche Gesellschaft für Funktionsdiagnostik und -therapie e.V. (DGFDT): Retrieved via https://www.dgfdt.de/ on 04/29/2023.
  • Deutsche Gesellschaft für Zahn-, Mund- und Kieferheilkunde (DGZMK): Retrieved via https://www.dgzmk.de/ am 04/29/2023.
  • Deutsche Gesellschaft für Hals-Nasen-Ohren-Heilkunde, Kopf- und Hals-Chirurgie (DGHNO-KHC): Retrieved via https://www.dghno-khc.de/ am 04/29/2023.

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