What is the temporomandibular Joint (TMJ)?

The TM joint is also known as the jaw joint or TMJ. This joint attaches the lower jaw to the temporal bone of the skull. It is very flexible, allowing movement in 3 directions: front to back, side to side, and up and down. The upper part of the jaw bone is called a condyle. A disc lies between the condyle and socket to assist the jaw moving smoothly. The disc also absorbs shock to the jaw resulting from chewing and other movements. The complexity of movement of the TMJ, along with its unique composition, pose a challenge to patients and healthcare providers when problems arise.

What are Temporomandibular Disorders (TMDs) ?

TMDs are complex, characterized by pain in the jaw joint and surrounding tissues and limitation in jaw movement. One or both joints may be involved. TMDs can affect a person’s ability to speak, eat, swallow, make facial expressions, and even breathe.

Researchers have found that temporomandibular disorders often occur along with other – often painful – conditions in other parts of the body, prompting studies in search of a common factor
underlying them all. Among these conditions are chronic fatigue syndrome, chronic headache, endometriosis, fibromyalgia, interstitial cystitis, irritable bowel syndrome, and sleep disorders. Moreover, certain medical conditions such as Ehlers- Danlos syndrome, dystonia, Lyme disease, and scleroderma may affect the TM joint.

Symptoms

Pain is often described as dull and aching which comes and goes in the jaw joint and surrounding areas. Some have no pain but have difficulty moving their jaws. Symptoms include:
- pain in jaw muscles
- pain in neck and shoulders
- headaches
- jaw muscle stiffness
- limited movement or locking of jaw
- ear pain, pressure
- clicking, popping, or grating of the jaw joint when opening or closing
- a bite that feels “off”
- tinnitus (ringing in ears)
- dizziness/vision problems

Occasional discomfort is common and not always a cause for concern. You should seek help from your doctor if pain persists.

*Adapted from the National Institute of Health Brochure: TMJ Disorders