What is it? TMJ stands for temporomandibular joint, which is the joint that connects your jawbone (mandible) to your skull at the sides of your head, just in front of your ears. You have one on each side of your head, and they allow you to open and close your mouth, chew, speak, and yawn.

Details about the TMJ:

• Location: Right in front of each ear, where the lower jaw connects to the temporal bone of the skull.

• Function: Acts like a sliding hinge, allowing smooth movement of the jaw—up, down, and side to side.

• Components:

• Mandibular condyle: The rounded top part of the jawbone.

• Articular disc: A cartilage cushion that helps absorb pressure and allows smooth motion.

• Joint capsule and ligaments: Keep the joint stable.

• Muscles: Control movement (like chewing and speaking).

TMJ Disorders (TMD):

Sometimes people refer to TMJ when they actually mean TMD (temporomandibular disorders), which are problems with the joint or the surrounding muscles.

Common symptoms of TMJ disorders:

• Jaw pain or soreness

• Clicking, popping, or grinding sounds when moving the jaw

• Difficulty or pain when chewing

• Locking of the jaw (open or closed)

• Headaches, earaches, or facial pain

Cause’s of TMD

1. Jaw Injury

• A blow or trauma to the jaw (e.g., car accidents, falls) can damage the joint or surrounding muscles.

• It may cause dislocation, fractures, or long-term joint instability.

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2. Teeth Grinding (Bruxism)

• Clenching or grinding teeth, often during sleep, puts pressure on the joint.

• This leads to joint strain, muscle fatigue, and sometimes cartilage wear.

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3. Arthritis

• Both osteoarthritis (wear-and-tear) and rheumatoid arthritis (inflammation) can affect the TMJ.

• These conditions damage the joint surfaces and reduce movement.

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4. Jaw Misalignment

• If your teeth or jaw don’t align properly, the joint has to work harder.

• Over time, this can stress the TMJ and surrounding muscles.

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5. Stress and Muscle Tension

• Stress can lead to unconscious jaw clenching or tightening.

• This repeated tension irritates the joint and may cause pain or stiffness.