Conditions: Temporomandibular Joint (TMJ) Dysfunction

temporomandibular joint

The lower jaw (mandible) moves on a joint immediately in front of each ear. The joint itself, muscles around it, and the nerves serving it are all components of the family of temporomandibular disorders (TMD). TMD affects up to 15% of adults, with a peak incidence at 20 to 40 years of age. Common symptoms include jaw pain, earache, headache, facial pain, and clicking or grinding with jaw movements. Many causes contribute to TMD, including diet, clenching, tooth grinding, maloclusion (teeth coming together improperly), trauma, as well as social and emotional factors. Initial diagnosis is usually based on history and physical examination. Diagnostic imaging may be beneficial.

• Animated video explaining the temporomandibular joint and associated problems.

Temporo-Mandibular Joint Pain versus infection

TMD is not an infection, but the pain associated with it may feel like an infection. After evaluation by a physician or dentist, TMJ dysfunction may be diagnosed as the cause of pain.

How is TMD treated?

Most people improve with noninvasive care; treatment options, and the local dentists who focus on TMD, are described on the TMJ treatments page.