What is TMJ?
Temporomandibular Joint Disorders (sometimes called TMJ or TMD), refer to problems with the jaw and the muscles in your face that control your temporomandibular joint. This is the hinge that connects your jaw to the temporal bones of your skull, which are in front of each ear. It lets you move your jaw up and down and side to side, so you can talk, chew, and yawn.
What causes TMJ?
TMJ symptoms arise from problems with the muscles of your jaw or with the parts of the joint itself.
Injury to your jaw, the joint, or the muscles of your head and neck -- like from a heavy blow or whiplash -- can lead to TMJ. Other causes include:
What are the symptoms of TMJ?
TMJ often causes severe pain and discomfort. It can be temporary or last many years. It might affect one or both sides of your face. More women than men have it, and it’s most common among people between the ages of 20 and 40.
Common symptoms include:
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