1. Home
  2. Health Topics
  3. Search Health Topics
  4. Temporomandibular disorder (TMD)

Temporomandibular disorder (TMD)

Top of the page

Temporomandibular disorder is a jaw problem that causes pain when you talk, chew, swallow, or yawn. The most common cause is tension in your jaw muscles, such as from clenching your jaw or grinding your teeth.

Is it an emergency?

If you or someone in your care has chest pains, difficulty breathing, or severe bleeding, it could be a life-threatening emergency. Call 9-1-1 or the local emergency number immediately.
If you are concerned about a possible poisoning or exposure to a toxic substance, call Poison Control now at 1-800-567-8911.

Thanks to our partners and endorsers:

Northern HealthBritish Columbia College of Family PhysiciansProvincial Health Services AuthorityVancouver Coastal HealthBritish Columbia Medical Association: Doctors of BCIsland HealthCollege of Pharmacists of British ColumbiaCollege of Physicians and Surgeons of British ColumbiaFraser Health AuthorityCollege of Dietitians of British ColumbiaInterior HealthCollege of Dental Surgeons of British ColumbiaBC Centre for Disease Control