Most people refer to TMJ as pain or problems with their jaw. Technically, TMJ is the abbreviation for temporomandibular joint. The TMJ is the hinge between the skull and the jaw that provides for all movement (up, down, and side to side) of the jaw. Without this hinge, we would not be able to talk or eat.
A problem with the TMJ is more appropriately called TMD, which stands for temporomandibular disorder and encompasses many different symptoms, including.
- Swelling of the jaw and cheek areas
- A tired feeling of the face
- Pain of the face, jaw, neck, or shoulders when moving the jaw
- Upper and lower teeth not meeting together as they should
- Popping in the jaw when moving the jaw
- The locked in the open or closed position
TMD is any condition causing severe discomfort or pain in the jaw and face. TMD is more common in women between the ages of 20 to 40, and less so in men of any age. TMD can be an acute problem or a chronic one (meaning that it can last for many years).
Several factors can create a TMD, including stress, clenching or grinding of the jaw, or arthritis, as well as any kind of unusual motion in the disc between the ball and socket of the TMJ.
If you have persistent pain or tenderness of the jaw or find yourself unable to open or close the mouth fully, you should call for an examination as soon as possible.