TMJ is short for the temporomandibular joint. Temporal refers to the temple area of the skull. Mandible refers to the lower jaw. Joint refers to the fact that this is the joint where the head and jaw meet. There is also cartilage that buffers this joint and five muscles involved in the TMJ region. When things begin to go wrong with the TMJ, a good deal of difficulty can be the result.
Symptoms of TMJ may only be temporary, or they may last for many years. The most common symptoms include the following:
Some of these symptoms are also indicators of problems other than a TMJ disorder, so it is important to inform your dentist if you are experiencing any of these. The cause of TMJ disorders have been often difficult to diagnose, but they can include the following:
While there is no one single solution for TMJ disorders, possible solutions may include the replacement of missing teeth, the realignment of teeth, the adjustment of the bite, and more. Only your dentist can prescribe the correct treatment.
