TMJ

The temporomandibular joint (TMJ) is the joint of chewing. Muscles connect the lower jaw to the skull, allowing you to move your jaw forward, sideways, and open and close. The joint works without pain when the lower jaw and its joint are harmoniously working together. Temporomandibular Disorder (TMD) may occur when the jaw twists while functioning. Tooth misplacement often is a contributing factor. TMD describes a variety of conditions that affect jaw muscles, the TMJ, and the nerves associated with the face and jaws. This often leads to chronic facial pain. Symptoms may occur on one or both sides of the face, head or jaw, or develop after an injury. TMD affects more than twice as many women than men and is the most common non-dental related chronic oral and facial pain. TMD often is triggered by an event. Strenuous physical tasks or stressful situations seem to be a trigger for TMD. Another trigger can be trauma. Most discomfort is caused from a stretching of the muscles, or a displacement of certain components of the TMJ. Clenching or grinding teeth (bruxism) can also be a trigger. These excessive habits tire the jaw muscles and lead to, headaches or neck pain. Prolonged abnormal function can lead to worn or sensitive teeth, muscle soreness, jaw discomfort, and headaches. The condition may come and go, only to reoccur during times of stress.