Competencies

TMD in Cologne - symptoms, treatment, diagnosis & splinting

Orthodontist cologne - JUST KFO - Dr. Steinmaier + Kollegen - TMD Craniomandibular Dysfunction

The function of the temporomandibular joint and the masticatory apparatus

In addition to aesthetics, we focus on the treatment of functional disorders, especially craniomandibular dysfunction TMD, i.e. the masticatory apparatus and temporomandibular joint. Masticatory and temporomandibular joint function is directly linked to the function of the musculoskeletal system.

TMD - craniomandibular dysfunction

The cranium (= skull) and mandible (= lower jaw bone) have a functional relationship with each other. The masticatory organ is a unit consisting of teeth, the periodontium, the temporomandibular joints and the masticatory muscles and nerves.
If the interaction of these individual components is disturbed, we speak of dysfunction.

Orthodontist cologne - JUST KFO - Dr. Steinmaier + Kollegen - TMD Craniomandibular Dysfunction
Orthodontist cologne - JUST KFO - Dr. Steinmaier + Kollegen - Bruximus

TMD symptoms

TMD is an extremely complex disease and can therefore manifest itself in many different ways. Frequently occurring TMD symptoms are

TMD treatment in Cologne Rodenkirchen - occlusal splint and fixed bites

We use occlusal splints and/or fixed bites for therapy. Depending on the clinical picture, we, as TMD specialists in Cologne, supplement the therapy with manual medicine and osteopathic medicine, acupuncture, drug and orthomolecular therapy and work closely with manual physicians and physiotherapists for your TMD treatment.

Kieferorthopaede cologne - JUST KFO - Dr. Steinmaier + Kollegen - Laboratory - Bite splint TMD

Mobilization of the temporomandibular joints by the patient

TMD diagnostics - we make your joint visible

As TMD in Cologne, we carry out detailed examinations of the craniomandibular and musculoskeletal system in our practice. Our aim is to bring together as many diagnostic pieces of the puzzle as possible in order to subsequently carry out a well-founded causal therapy.

What exactly is TMD?

CMD steht für „Craniomandibuläre Dysfunktion“. Es handelt sich um eine Störung im Bereich der Kiefergelenke und der Kiefermuskulatur, die oft mit Schmerzen und Einschränkungen beim Kauen, Sprechen und Öffnen des Mundes einhergeht. Ursachen können unter anderem Zahnfehlstellungen, Stress, Muskelverspannungen oder Verletzungen sein. Die CMD Behandlung umfasst eine Reihe von Maßnahmen wie Physiotherapie, Entspannungsübungen, Schmerztherapie und gegebenenfalls auch eine Anpassung der Zahnstellung durch eine Zahnschiene oder eine kieferorthopädische Behandlung.

How does TMD manifest itself?

TMD can manifest itself in a number of ways, but the most common TMD symptoms are:

  1. Pain in the area of the jaw, face, neck or ears
  2. Restrictions when opening the mouth
  3. Cracking noises when chewing or speaking
  4. Muscle tension in the head and neck area
  5. Headaches, earaches or toothaches that have no identifiable cause
  6. Jaw joint noises such as grinding, cracking or rubbing.

Some people with craniomandibular dysfunction also report the following symptoms: dizziness, tinnitus, sleep disorders or problems with posture and the spine. TMD symptoms can vary depending on the severity and cause of the condition. If you suspect you have TMD , you should see an orthodontist to get an accurate diagnosis using digital diagnostics and appropriate treatment.

What are the symptoms of TMD?

Craniomandibular dysfunction TMD stands for and refers to a group of disorders that affect the masticatory muscles, jaw joints and temporomandibular joint. TMD symptoms can be diverse and vary from person to person. Here are some common possible symptoms:

Possible symptoms of craniomandibular dysfunction:

  1. Pain in the temporomandibular joints, chewing muscles or face
  2. Headaches or migraines
  3. Teeth grinding or clenching (bruxism)
  4. Restrictions in jaw mobility, e.g. difficulty opening or closing the mouth
  5. Cracking or grinding in the jaw joints during movement
  6. Tension in the shoulders and neck area
  7. Earache or tinnitus (ringing in the ears)
  8. Dizziness
  9. Dental problems, e.g. wear of the tooth surfaces, tooth loosening or sensitivity can also be TMD symptoms. It is important to consult a specialized orthodontist / TMD specialist Cologne if you suspect TMD in order to receive an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

What is done with TMD ?

TMD treatment depends on the individual diagnosis and symptoms. Here are some possible treatment options:

  1. Orthodontic TMD treatment: If TMD is caused by misaligned teeth, orthodontic treatment can help to correct the position of the teeth and jaw.
  2. Relaxation exercises and physiotherapy: Various TMD exercises can help to relax the jaw muscles and improve the mobility of the temporomandibular joints. A physiotherapist can recommend specific TMD exercises that are tailored to the patient's individual needs.
  3. Pain therapy: Pain medication or muscle relaxants can temporarily help to relieve pain and muscle tension.
  4. Behavioral changes: Stress reduction and changes in diet or sleeping position can help to reduce symptoms.
  5. Dental splints: A dental splint (also known as a bite splint) can help to reduce pressure on the jaw joints and correct the position of the teeth.
  6. Surgical interventions: In rare cases, surgery may be necessary to treat the cause, e.g. severe jaw injuries or tumors.

It is important to consult a qualified and specialized TMD specialist in Cologne who can perform an accurate digital diagnostics diagnosis and make an individual recommendation for treatment.

Can you cure TMD yourself?

There is no simple answer as to whether you can cure TMD yourself, as treatment depends on a number of factors, including the cause and severity of the condition, as well as the patient's individual symptoms and needs.

However, it is unlikely that craniomandibular dysfunction can be completely cured without professional medical help. However, there are various measures that can help to reduce the symptoms and slow down the progression of the condition. These include, for example, avoiding excessive use of the jaw, stress reduction, relaxation exercises, a healthy diet and sufficient sleep.

It is important to see a qualified orthodontist Cologne Rodenkirchen early to get an accurate diagnosis and begin appropriate TMD treatment. Early diagnosis and treatment can help slow the progression of the disease and prevent long-term damage.

How long does it take until TMD is cured?

The duration of TMD treatment depends on several factors, including the cause and severity of the condition as well as the patient's individual symptoms and needs.

There is no single cure time, as treatment is usually aimed at reducing symptoms and slowing the progression of the disease. In some cases, symptoms can be significantly improved after a few weeks or months of treatment. In other cases, however, treatment by the TMD specialist Cologne may take longer, especially if the condition is chronic or has caused serious complications.

It is important to have regular monitoring and adjustment of treatment by a qualified orthodontist / TMD specialist Cologne to ensure that treatment for craniomandibular dysfunction remains effective and is adjusted as necessary to achieve the best possible results.

Is TMD painful?

Yes, TMD can be very painful. The most common symptoms include pain in the jaw area, headaches, facial pain and ear pain. This pain can worsen when the jaw is moved or when pressure is applied to the jaw, for example when chewing or grinding teeth.

Some patients also experience muscle tension or muscle spasms in the jaw and neck area, which can lead to further pain. In some cases, craniomandibular dysfunction can also lead to dental discomfort or toothache.

It is important to see a qualified orthodontist if you have persistent jaw, head or facial pain in order to receive an accurate diagnosis and appropriate TMD treatment. Early treatment with your orthodontist Cologne Rodenkirchen can help reduce pain and prevent long-term damage.

How does a dentist diagnose TMD ?

Craniomandibular dysfunction is a collective term for a number of disorders and complaints associated with the temporomandibular joints, the muscles of mastication and the surrounding structures. Orthodontists / TMD specialists in Cologne are experts in the field of jaw and tooth misalignment and play an important role in the diagnosis and treatment of craniomandibular dysfunction. Diagnosis by an orthodontist generally involves the following steps:

  1. Medical history: The orthodontist first takes a thorough medical history to gather information about the patient's medical history, complaints, symptoms and possible triggering factors. This includes questions about the occurrence of pain, jaw joint noises, restricted mouth opening, night-time teeth grinding (bruxism) and other associated complaints.
  2. Clinical examination: The orthodontist then performs a clinical examination in which the patient is carefully examined for signs. This includes inspection and palpation of the temporomandibular joints and masticatory muscles, assessment of mouth opening and closing movements as well as checking for tooth wear and occlusal disorders (malocclusion).
  3. Imaging procedures: In some cases, the orthodontist may order additional diagnostic tests to better understand the extent. These include imaging procedures such as X-rays, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) or computed tomography (CT) to take a closer look at the temporomandibular joints and surrounding structures.
  4. Treatment planning: After diagnosing craniomandibular dysfunction, the orthodontist will create an individualized treatment plan based on the patient's specific needs. TMD therapy may include conservative measures such as physiotherapy, TMD splint or occlusal splint therapy, medication and relaxation techniques. In more complex cases, orthodontic or oral surgery treatment may be required to correct misalignments of the teeth or jaw that contribute to craniomandibular dysfunction.

Orthodontists play a very important role in the diagnosis and treatment of TMD . They use their expertise in jaw and tooth misalignment to perform a thorough medical history, clinical examination and, if necessary, imaging procedures to identify TMD and create an appropriate treatment plan.

TMD treatment

TMD treatment (cranio-mandibular dysfunction) aims to alleviate pain and discomfort in the temporomandibular joint, chewing pain and headaches as well as other symptoms caused by a malfunction of the temporomandibular joint. Individually adapted measures such as physiotherapy, splinting, medication or, if necessary, dental corrections are used to achieve an optimal bite and harmonious function of the masticatory apparatus. A comprehensive diagnosis is crucial for the success of the treatment, which is why collaboration between orthodontists, orthopaedists, physiotherapists and other specialists is important. TMD treatment can significantly improve the quality of life of affected patients and contribute to long-term pain relief and stabilization of the temporomandibular joint.

Which medications help with TMD?

Different therapeutic approaches are used in TMD treatment, which vary depending on the cause, severity of the condition and the patient's individual symptoms. One option is pain therapy, which helps to temporarily relieve pain and muscle tension.

Another approach involves the use of medicines that help to relax the muscles and thus reduce muscle tension in the jaw area. In some cases, preparations can also be used to reduce pain and muscle tension in the jaw area and relieve stress at the same time.

If the patient suffers from anxiety or sleep disorders, certain remedies can be used to alleviate the symptoms. However, such preparations should only be used in the short term and under medical supervision.

It is important to point out that pharmacological therapy approaches are only part of a comprehensive TMD treatment and are not necessary in every case. Long-term use of pain therapies or muscle relaxants can have undesirable side effects and should therefore only be carried out under medical supervision.

Is TMD psychological?

In many cases, craniomandibular dysfunction has a multifactorial cause, and both physical and psychological factors can play a role. Stress, anxiety, depression and other emotional stresses can contribute to exacerbating or causing TMD .

Increased tension in the jaw and neck area, which can occur during stress or anxiety, can lead to overstraining of the jaw muscles and thus cause or worsen craniomandibular dysfunction.

However, it is important to emphasize that it is not a purely psychological disorder and can have an organic cause, e.g. due to misaligned teeth, trauma or other physical factors. Holistic treatment should therefore take both physical and psychological aspects into account.

It can be helpful to incorporate stress management techniques such as relaxation exercises, meditation, yoga or psychotherapy into TMD therapy to address the emotional factors that may be contributing to the condition.

What happens if TMD is not treated?

If craniomandibular dysfunction is not treated, the symptoms can worsen over time and lead to serious complications. The pain in the jaw and head area can become chronic and spread to other areas of the body, such as the neck, back and shoulders.

Untreated craniomandibular dysfunction can worsen jaw mobility, which can lead to difficulty chewing, speaking and opening the mouth. Craniomandibular dysfunction can also cause teeth to wear down faster and increase the risk of tooth loss. In some cases, TMD can lead to ringing in the ears such as tinnitus. Sleep disturbances and psychological stress can affect the patient's quality of life. It is therefore important to ensure timely diagnosis and TMD treatment to avoid long-term damage and complications.

TMD therapy

Craniomandibular dysfunction is a condition that affects the temporomandibular joints, muscles and nerves in the facial area. Typical symptoms include pain in the jaw area, difficulty chewing, facial pain and headaches. The causes are varied and can include stress, dental problems or injury. Treatment often involves a combination of physiotherapy, pain therapy and dental treatment.

If you need more information about TMD therapy, we recommend that you consult a specialist orthodontist.

TMD therapy: freedom from pain and improved quality of life

Cranio-mandibular dysfunction is a condition that can cause pain in the temporomandibular joint and surrounding muscles. TMD therapy aims to relieve the symptoms and address the causes of the condition by combining various treatment approaches such as physiotherapy, splint therapy, drug therapy, stress management, orthodontic treatment and, in rare cases, surgery. It is important to see a specialist if TMD persist or worsen in order to receive an accurate diagnosis and an individualized treatment plan.

In addition to professional treatment, sufferers can also take self-help measures to alleviate symptoms, such as heat or cold applications, a soft diet, avoiding bad habits and taking regular breaks with stretching exercises. Through a combination of professional treatment and self-help measures, sufferers can reduce their pain and discomfort and improve their quality of life in the long term.

How bad can TMD get?

Craniomandibular dysfunction TMD can occur in varying degrees of severity and can range from mild symptoms to severe effects on the patient's quality of life. In some cases, craniomandibular dysfunction can lead to chronic pain, limited jaw mobility, tooth wear, tinnitus and sleep disorders. If craniomandibular dysfunction is left untreated, the symptoms can also become chronic over time and lead to further complications.

In rare cases, craniomandibular dysfunction can lead to severe functional disorders of the temporomandibular joint, such as disc displacement or joint wear. These can lead to permanent restrictions in jaw mobility and pain.

It is important to note that the severity of the condition depends on several factors, including the cause and duration of the condition, the individual's symptoms and the patient's response to treatment. Early diagnosis and TMD therapy can help prevent long-term damage and complications and improve the patient's quality of life.

What does health insurance pay for TMD?

The coverage of TMD treatment by health insurance can depend on various factors, including the type and severity of the condition, the chosen treatment method and the individual insurance conditions. In principle, statutory health insurance companies in Germany will cover part of the costs of treatment if certain conditions are met.

Special TMD treatment can usually only be carried out if there is a medical necessity and successful therapy cannot be achieved by other means. A therapeutic goal can consist of various elements, e.g. conservative treatment methods such as physiotherapy, pain therapy or occlusal splints. In severe cases, surgical therapy may also be necessary.

Statutory health insurance companies only cover the costs of TMD treatment in certain cases and to a limited extent. Private health insurance companies may offer different conditions and benefits. It is therefore advisable to find out in advance about the conditions and benefits offered by your own health insurance company and, if necessary, to obtain a declaration of assumption of costs.

It is important to note that the assumption of costs for TMD treatment depends on various factors and can vary from case to case. Exact information can only be provided by the health insurance company or the treating doctor.

How expensive is TMD treatment?

The cost of TMD treatment can vary depending on the type and severity of the condition, the treatment method chosen and the duration of therapy. Conservative treatment such as physiotherapy or a bite splint is generally less expensive than surgical treatment.

The cost of a bite splint, which is usually the first choice as a conservative treatment option for craniomandibular dysfunction. If the TMD splint is fitted by an orthodontist, the orthodontist can also arrange for a custom-made splint, which may incur higher costs.

Surgical treatment, such as arthroscopy or temporomandibular joint surgery, can usually cost several thousand euros. The costs can vary depending on the extent and severity of the operation.

It is important to note that the cost of TMD therapy depends on various factors and can vary from case to case. It is advisable to enquire with your health insurance provider about the assumption of costs before starting therapy and, if necessary, to obtain a declaration of assumption of costs.

Which sport for TMD?

With TMD , it is advisable to focus on sports that do not put excessive strain on the temporomandibular joints and do not overstress the jaw muscles. Gentle sports that can improve posture and relieve tension are particularly recommended. Here are some sports that may be suitable for people with craniomandibular dysfunction:

  1. Swimming: Swimming is an excellent sport for people with TMD as it is easy on the joints and relaxing for the body.
  2. Yoga: Yoga is a gentle sport that can help to relieve tension in the body and improve posture.
  3. Pilates: Pilates is another gentle sport that can help improve posture.
  4. Cycling: Cycling is a sport that is easy on the joints and can help to strengthen muscles and relieve tension.
  5. Nordic walking: Nordic walking is a gentle form of walking that uses poles to activate additional muscle groups and improve posture.

However, it is important to remember that everyone is different and not all sports are equally suitable for everyone. Before taking up a new sport, a doctor or physiotherapist should therefore be consulted to check suitability and, if necessary, receive individual recommendations.

What does the neurologist do with TMD?

Craniomandibular dysfunction is a disorder of the temporomandibular joint and the surrounding tissue. It is usually diagnosed and treated by an orthodontist. In some cases, however, a neurologist may also be involved in the treatment of TMD .

A neurologist is a specialist in diseases of the nervous system and can be consulted during TMD therapy if the symptoms extend beyond the temporomandibular joint and neurological causes are suspected. A neurological examination can help to rule out other diseases or make an accurate diagnosis.

If neurological causes are suspected, the following examinations can be carried out:

  1. Electromyography (EMG): An EMG exam can help measure muscle activity and detect abnormal muscle activity associated with TMD .
  2. Electroneurography (ENG): An ENG examination can help to detect nerve damage.
  3. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI): An MRI scan can be helpful in detecting damage to the temporomandibular joint and surrounding structures and making an accurate diagnosis.

It is important to note that the involvement of a neurologist in TMD treatment depends on various factors and can vary from case to case. Precise information can only be provided by the treating physicians.

Can any dentist treat TMD ?

While in principle any treating dentist is able to treat craniomandibular dysfunction, TMD specialists in Cologne often have more in-depth knowledge of diagnosis and treatment due to their specialized training and experience. Orthodontists have additional training in the treatment of TMJ disorders and therefore have broader expertise in dealing with craniomandibular dysfunction. They have specialized equipment such as TMJ sonography or X-ray procedures to effectively diagnose and treat craniomandibular dysfunction.

For this reason, many experts recommend consulting an experienced orthodontist if you have any suspicions to ensure an accurate diagnosis and effective treatment. Orthodontists can perform a comprehensive examination and develop a customized treatment to alleviate symptoms and prevent long-term damage.

Can the family doctor prescribe TMD ?

GPs cannot prescribe TMD directly as it is a disorder of the temporomandibular joint and surrounding tissues and is usually diagnosed and treated by a treating dentist or orthodontist.

However, if a patient is suffering from symptoms that indicate craniomandibular dysfunction, the GP can refer the patient to an appropriate specialist such as a treating dentist or orthodontist. The treating TMD dentist or TMD specialist in Cologne can then carry out a comprehensive examination, make an accurate diagnosis and initiate suitable TMD therapy.

However, the GP can play an important role in TMD treatment, especially if the symptoms are related to other conditions or factors such as stress or mental health issues. In this case, the GP can plan a holistic treatment and, if necessary, consult other specialists such as a psychologist or physiotherapist to ensure comprehensive therapy.

How often can a dentist prescribe TMD ?

TMD cannot be prescribed directly, as TMD is not a medication or a cure, but a disorder of the temporomandibular joint and surrounding tissues. However, a dentist or orthodontist can make a diagnosis and initiate appropriate treatment.

The frequency with which a dentist or orthodontist can diagnose and treat craniomandibular dysfunction depends on various factors, such as the number of patients visiting the practice, the severity of the conditions and the experience and qualifications of the treating dentist or orthodontist.

As a rule, there are no restrictions on the number of TMD treatments that a dentist or orthodontist may perform. Treatment is individualized to the patient and may vary in length depending on the severity of the condition and other factors. However, the dentist or orthodontist will carry out regular check-ups to monitor the progress of the treatment and make adjustments if necessary.

However, it is important to note that the cost of TMD therapy depends on various factors and can vary from case to case. The costs can also depend on the patient's health insurance company and the individual insurance conditions. It is therefore advisable to obtain detailed information in advance about the conditions and benefits of your own health insurance and, if necessary, to obtain a declaration of assumption of costs.

How is TMD diagnosed?

Craniomandibular dysfunction is best diagnosed by an experienced orthodontist / TMD specialist Cologne, as they have specialized knowledge and skills to effectively identify and treat the condition.

The diagnosis is usually made through a comprehensive examination of the temporomandibular joint, the jaw muscles and the teeth. The orthodontist can use various diagnostic procedures, such as clinical examination, imaging procedures such as X-rays or MRI, and functional tests such as TMJ sonography or electronic muscle analysis.

An experienced orthodontist can accurately interpret the symptoms and make a precise diagnosis in order to develop an effective therapy. They can also regularly monitor the progress of TMD treatment and make adjustments if necessary to achieve optimal results.

It is important to note that craniomandibular dysfunction is a complex condition that is often difficult to diagnose. However, an experienced orthodontist with specialized knowledge and skills can make an accurate diagnosis and develop a customized treatment to alleviate the symptoms of craniomandibular dysfunction and minimize the long-term effects of the condition.

Which TMD exercises for craniomandibular dysfunction?

There are several TMD exercises that can help with craniomandibular dysfunction to relax the jaw muscles and improve jaw mobility. Here are some examples:

  1. Stretching exercises for the jaw muscles: One way to stretch the jaw muscles is to gently open and close the mouth while pressing against the lower jaw with your hand. Another option is to open your mouth and tilt your head back slightly to stretch the jaw muscles.
  2. Jaw loosening exercises: This exercise involves loosening the lower jaw and moving it slowly to the right and left and up and down.
  3. Tongue exercises: This exercise consists of pressing the tongue against the roof of the mouth and then slowly pulling it back.
  4. Relaxation exercises: Relaxation exercises such as yoga, progressive muscle relaxation or breathing exercises can help to release tension in the jaw and the entire body region and achieve deeper relaxation.

However, it is important to note that every person is different and not all TMD exercises are equally suitable for every patient. Before starting a new exercise, a doctor or physiotherapist should therefore be consulted to check suitability and, if necessary, receive individual recommendations.

Why do you get TMD?

The exact causes of TMD (craniomandibular dysfunction) have not yet been fully researched. It is thought that a combination of factors may contribute to its development. Here are some possible causes:

  1. Stress: Stress can increase muscle tension and lead to tension in the jaw area
  2. Misaligned teeth: Poor occlusion or misalignment of the teeth or jaw can lead to the jaw being overloaded
  3. Excessive teeth grinding or clenching: Constant clenching or grinding of the teeth can lead to overloading of the jaw muscles and the temporomandibular joint.
  4. Injuries or trauma: Injuries or trauma to the temporomandibular joint or jaw muscles.
  5. Arthritis: Inflammatory diseases such as arthritis can affect the temporomandibular joints

It is important to note that craniomandibular dysfunction is a complex condition and that the causes can vary from person to person. An accurate diagnosis by your orthodontist in Cologne Rodenkirchen is therefore important in order to initiate a suitable TMD therapy.

How can you relax the jaw muscles?

There are several ways to relax the jaw muscles:

  1. Heat applications: A heat treatment can help to increase blood circulation in the jaw area and relieve tension in the muscles. For example, you can place a warm towel on your face or use a hot water bottle.
  2. Massage: A gentle massage in the jaw area can help to loosen the muscles and relieve tension.
  3. Relaxation exercises: Relaxation exercises such as yoga, breathing exercises or progressive muscle relaxation can help to reduce stress and tension in the body, including in the jaw area.
  4. Physiotherapy: A physiotherapist can use special techniques to stretch and loosen the jaw muscles.
  5. Avoid trigger factors: To relax the jaw muscles, it is important to avoid trigger factors such as teeth grinding, jaw clenching or chewing gum.
  6. Mouthguard: A mouthguard individually fitted by a TMD dentist can help to reduce teeth grinding and jaw clenching and thus relieve the jaw muscles.

However, it is important to note that CM treatment can be complex and that each patient should be considered individually. It is therefore advisable to seek advice from an orthodontist to obtain the best options for relaxing the jaw muscles.

TMD - compact and to the point

Craniomandibular dysfunction (TMD) is a condition that affects the temporomandibular joint in conjunction with the teeth of the upper and lower jaw. TMD can lead to complaints such as head and neck pain, shoulder tension and restrictions in other areas of the body. A specialized dental practice, or better a specialist orthodontic practice, can perform TMD, which may include instrumental functional analysis, wearing a bite splint and simple exercises.

One of the most common causes of TMD is night-time teeth grinding, also known as bruxism. Wearing a TMD at night and during the day can help to reduce pressure on the jaw joint and relieve head and neck pain. This splint adapts to the head and neck area and thus offers optimum protection and comfort.

Another cause can be an uneven distribution of fillings or crowns on the teeth of the upper and lower jaw. This can cause the teeth to shift and affect the functioning of the temporomandibular joint. A specialist orthodontic practice can perform TMD by balancing the teeth of the upper and lower jaw to improve the functioning of the TMJ and optimize bite splint wear.

TMD can also help to reduce discomfort. Simple exercises such as opening and closing the mouth or turning the head from side to side can help to relax the muscles in the head and neck area and relieve symptoms.

In some cases, statutory health insurance companies may cover the costs of treatment, especially if it is deemed medically necessary. However, it is important to clarify this with your health insurance company in advance, as coverage depends on the individual conditions.

If you have symptoms of TMD , you should see a specialist orthodontist who can carry out a thorough examination. Early diagnosis and treatment can help to alleviate symptoms quickly and prevent further damage to the TMJ.

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