The TemporoMandibular Joint (TMJ) is the joint where the lower jaw (mandible) joins the temporal bone of the skull. The TMJ is directly in front of the ear on both sides of your head. There is a small disc of cartilage that separates the bones, very similar to what you see in the knee joint. The mandible can slide very easily because of this disc of cartilage. Whenever you talk, chew, talk, yawn, or even swallow, the mandible has to move. Because of this, the TemporoMandibular Joint is one of the most frequently used joints in the body. It is also one of the most complex.
More than 10 million people suffer from TMJ or TMD. People of all ages have TMJ syndrome - pre-teens, teens, young adults, middle aged people and senior citizens. The phrase "TMJ Disorder" is often a catch-all term used to describe any dysfunction of the jaw joints and muscles. TemporoMandibular Joint syndrome can be as minor as a slight popping or clicking sensation when you open or close your mouth, or as serious as constant pain that extends into the face, neck and shoulders. The more serious pain caused by TMJ can even affect posture and mobility.
A TemporoMandibular Joint Specialist can serve as the key member of a TMJ treatment team which could, depending on the cause of your TMJ syndrome, include an oral surgeon, physical therapist, orthodontist, your primary care physician, and possibly even a psychologist. A mindful and complete medical and dental evaluation is essential to arriving at an accurate diagnosis. There are many other types of pain that have been shown to mimic pain from TMJ disorder. If your diagnosis indicates causes other than TMJ, you may be referred to another member of the dental care team or a specialist for further diagnosis or treatment.
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