Now a new app, called JawSpace®, launches the world’s first digital medical device dedicated to empowering and supporting people living with TMD, combining practical self-management guidance together with the latest scientific research.

Experts at Newcastle University have helped develop the app, which provides research-based self-management guidance to help users understand jaw and facial discomfort, including common symptoms like jaw clicking or headaches.

‘Cornerstone of effective treatment’

Justin Durham, Professor of Orofacial Pain at Newcastle University and Co-Director/Chief Clinical and Scientific Officer at JawSpace®, said: “Temporomandibular disorders affect millions of people worldwide, yet for decades, patients have faced a frustrating reality: fragmented care, inconsistent advice, and a lack of practical support between clinic visits.

“At Newcastle University, our research has shown time and again that self-management is not just helpful, it is the cornerstone of effective treatment. But evidence alone isn’t enough. Patients need tools that translate that science into something usable, accessible, and empowering in their daily lives.

“That’s why JawSpace® is so exciting as it represents a genuine step change in how we support self-management. By combining rigorous research with cutting-edge digital technology, we’re creating a platform that doesn’t just inform patients - it actively supports them, guides them, and gives them confidence to take control of their condition.”

Each feature of the app has been shaped by clinical research and patient feedback, ensuring it’s not only scientifically robust but also practical and compassionate. The app’s vision is to make sure that people living with TMD have access to clear and high quality self-management support, wherever they are, whenever they need it.

Through a guided self-assessment, users can explore their symptoms and contributing factors, receiving a tailored self-management plan.

The platform brings together a range of self-management tools including jaw exercises and relaxation techniques, thermal therapy, self-massage guidance, symptom and habit tracking, practical daily strategies, and educational resources.

Daily check-ins, smart reminders, and progress tracking supports users in noticing patterns and to identify triggers and build healthier jaw habits.

Designed for both home use and clinical settings, JawSpace® ensures continuity of care and broad accessibility.

Alexandra Penn, Founder, Co-Director and CEO of JawSpace®, said: “Our app exists to address a problem that has been overlooked for far too long.

“Millions live with TMD without access to clear, evidence-based guidance. We’re taking decades of research and making it usable for anyone, anywhere.

“The science has always been here; what’s been missing is a way for people to access it. We’re building the tools that should have existed long ago, so people everywhere can finally find clear, credible support."

Impact of TMD

TMD silently erodes quality of life and it’s on par with arthritis and depression, causing up to a 30% reduction in quality of life. However, between 75% and 90% of patients improve their condition with early self-management.

Hugo Dias, Specialist TMD and Orofacial Pain Physiotherapist, said: “The JawSpace® app has become a key component of my clinical practice as it is a helpful resource for many of my patients.

“It supports the advice I discuss with my patients in clinic and gives them a clear way to engage with their self-management outside appointments.

“JawSpace® is very intuitive and user friendly. The feedback from patients has been great, as well as from other physiotherapists who have used it in their clinical practice.”

The JawSpace® app recently won the national Dental Industry 2025 award for App of the Year. It was also shortlisted for both best brand and best website.

To find out more about the JawSpace® app, click here

JawSpace® app user

Brand manager Raisa O’Leary knows first-hand the impact TMD can have on quality of life, having lived with the condition for more than a year.

The 33-year-old experienced a sudden onset of symptoms that left her unable to fully open her mouth and in significant pain. When her symptoms failed to improve over time, she sought specialist care.

Based in London, Raisa underwent surgery and Botox® treatment to manage her acute symptoms.

Her clinician advised that TMD often requires long-term self-management to reduce the risk of ongoing symptoms and flare-ups and recommended she try the JawSpace® app as part of her treatment plan.

Raisa said: “JawSpace® has played an important role in helping me manage my TMD. It’s given me structure and practical tools, which has helped me feel more in control of my condition.

“The app has helped me become more aware of my symptoms through guided exercises, symptom tracking, and daily check-ins. This has made it easier to recognise patterns and respond early when I feel a flare-up coming on.

“I would recommend JawSpace® to anyone living with TMD. The condition can be challenging, both physically and emotionally, but having clear, accessible support has made self-management feel more achievable. It reassures me that I’m actively looking after my condition every day.”

JawSpace® is registered as a medical device in the UK and Australia and individual experiences may vary.