The temporomandibular joints, called TMJ, are the joints and jaw muscles that make it possible to open and close your mouth. Located on each side of the head, your TMJ work together when you chew, speak or swallow and include muscles and ligaments as well as the jaw bone. They also control the lower jaw (mandible) as it moves forward, backward and side to side.
Each TMJ has a disc between the ball and socket. The disc cushions the load while enabling the jaw to open widely and rotate or glide. Any problem that prevents this complex system of muscles, ligaments, discs and bones from working properly may result in a painful TMJ disorder.
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Each TMJ has a disc between the ball and socket. The disc cushions the load while enabling the jaw to open widely and rotate or glide. Any problem that prevents this complex system of muscles, ligaments, discs and bones from working properly may result in a painful TMJ disorder.
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Temporomandibular dysfunction includes a wide range of disorders that often overlap. They include:
- Muscle problems that affect jaw movement
- Pain in the face around the jaw joint
- Problems within the joint itself
For instance, patients with a muscle problem that is causing pain will most likely not benefit from surgery on the temporomandibular joint.
Most problems, whether muscular or within the joint, get better over time. For this reason, most experts agree that it's best to use conservative treatment at first. But in some instances, surgery or other procedures, such as injections, may be recommended as a first treatment.
Most people with TMJ disorders have temporary symptoms that are not serious and do not get worse. They usually can get better with simple treatments done with a dentist.
