Have you been experiencing pain and discomfort while talking or eating? Issues with your jaw and the facial muscles that control it are known as temporomandibular disorders (TMD) or TMJ dysfunction.
In this blog, learn more about the temporomandibular joint (TMJ) and the symptoms, causes, and treatments for TMJ dysfunction.
What is the Temporomandibular Joint?
The temporomandibular joint (TMJ) is a hinge that connects your lower jaw (mandible) to the bottom of the skull (temporal bone).
There is one TMJ on each side of your head, in front of each ear. It is one of the most used joints in the body as it allows for the movements needed for speaking, eating and facial expressions.
What is TMJ Dysfunction (TMD)?
Temporomandibular disorder, or TMJ dysfunction (TMD), encompasses a group of disorders of the masticatory system, broadly divided into muscular conditions and those affecting the temporomandibular joint.
Since the TMJ is one of the most frequently used joints in the body, any jaw pain or restriction of movement in this area can be very distressing and uncomfortable.