What is TMJ?

TMJ is the commonly referred to condition of frequent pain, clicking, popping and locking of the jaw joint. The Temporomandibular Joint (TMJ or TM Joint) is the joint that connects between your lower jaw and your head. That is, it's the joint between you "temporal" bone (temple bone) and "mandibular" bone (jaw bone).

TM Joint Anatomy: The Temporomandibular Joint is very unique from other joints in the body. Not only does the TM Joint rotate like a ball and socket, but it also slides forward and backwards. Between the jaw bone and the temple bone within the joint is a disk. This disk cushions the the bones like the cartilage in your knees.

TM Joint Problems: The Temporomandibular Joint is problematic. There are two main problems with the TM Joint: Problems with the joint itself and problems with the muscles that surround the joint. Muscle problems need only conservative therapy to remedy your pain. Internal joint problems require further intervention. Fortunately there are minimally invasive techniques that make 80% of people better.

TM Joint Treatments: Temporomandibular Joint treatments are aimed at what the cause of the problem is whether muscle related or joint related. The first step your doctor will take is determining if you have a muscle problem or a joint problem. Muscle problems have many treatment options. Joint problems have traditionally required surgery but there are now minimally invasive arthroscopic procedures that can be done.

Do you have TM Joint Dysfunction or are you having migraines or cluster headaches? Fortunately research has been done on this topic and you can find out with a simple self screening questionnaire.