The TMJA Association (http://tmj.org/) is a wonderful site and resource for information on TMJD. They recently published a survey they conducted and here is a summary of the findings. Based on my experience with TMJD, it sounds about right and I wasn't surprised that gastrointestinal complaints were mentioned as a complaint:
TMJA Survey Results
TMJA Survey Results
- The individuals affected by Temporomandibluar Joint Disorders (TMD) were on average 41 years of age and predominantly female (90%).
- Nearly 60% of both men and women reported recent pain of moderate-to-severe intensity with a quarter of them indicating interference or termination of work-related activities.
- In the case-control comparison, a higher frequency of headaches, allergies, depression, fatigue, degenerative arthritis, fibromyalgia, autoimmune disorders, sleep apnea, and gastrointestinal complaints were prevalent among those affected with TMD. Many of the associated comorbid conditions were over 6 times more likely to occur after TMD was diagnosed.
- Among a wide array of treatments used (46 listed), the most effective relief for most affected individuals (91%) was the use of thermal therapies—hot/cold packs to the jaw area or hot baths.
- Nearly 40% of individuals affected with TMD reported one or more surgical procedures and nearly all were treated with one or many different medications. Results of these treatments were generally equivocal.