TMD Treatment in Düsseldorf

Temporomandibular disorder (TMD) – when the jaw causes problems

Headaches, neck tension, ringing in the ears or a clicking jaw joint – a temporomandibular disorder (TMD), known in German as craniomandibular dysfunction (CMD), may be behind these symptoms. TMD describes a malfunction in the interaction between the jaw joints, the chewing muscles and the teeth. At our dental practice in Düsseldorf, we diagnose and treat TMD symptoms individually and holistically.

Symptoms of TMD

The symptoms of a temporomandibular disorder are varied and are often not immediately associated with the jaw:

• Jaw joint pain or clicking when opening and closing the mouth
• Teeth grinding (bruxism) – often at night and unconsciously
• Headaches, including migraine-like headaches, especially in the morning after waking up
• Neck and shoulder tension
• Earache or tinnitus without an ENT finding
• Restricted mouth opening or locked jaw
• Worn, sensitive or broken teeth
• Dizziness and balance problems

Causes of TMD

The causes are often multifactorial:

• Malocclusion: The teeth do not fit together correctly, which leads to overloading of the jaw joints and muscles
• Stress: Psychological strain often leads to unconscious teeth grinding or jaw clenching
• Dentures or fillings: Dental restorations that are not optimally fitted can change the bite
• Posture problems: Poor posture in the shoulder and neck area can affect the jaw joint
• Injuries: Accidents or falls involving the jaw

Diagnosing TMD

Careful diagnostics are the basis of TMD treatment. Our approach:

1. Detailed medical history: Recording your symptoms, previous history and possible triggers
2. Clinical functional analysis: Examination of the jaw joints, the chewing muscles and the bite position
3. Digital diagnostics: If necessary, X-rays or 3D imaging to assess the structures of the jaw joint

Treatment options

Occlusal splint (grinding splint)

The most common treatment for TMD and bruxism is an individually made occlusal splint. It is produced to a precise fit in our in-house dental laboratory. The splint is usually worn at night and ensures that the jaw joints are relieved and the teeth are protected from further wear. Read more in our guide on teeth grinding.

Prosthetic and restorative measures

If missing teeth or ill-fitting dental restorations are causing the TMD, new prosthetic treatment can correct the bite position and relieve the symptoms in the long term.

Interdisciplinary collaboration

In complex TMD cases, we work together with physiotherapists, orthopaedic specialists and ENT specialists where necessary in order to pursue a holistic treatment approach.

Cost of TMD treatment

The cost of TMD treatment depends on the type and extent of the diagnostics and treatment. A simple grinding splint is generally covered by German statutory health insurance. More elaborate functional analysis procedures or individually made splints may require personal contributions. We advise you transparently in advance about the costs to be expected.