Temporomandibular joint(TMJ), is located just in front of the ear, where the jaw meets the skull. Problems within the TMJ may cause ear or jaw pain, ringing in the ears, clicking in the joint, or pain (headache) in the area where the hinges of the jaw meet the upper face.

Many patients with daily headaches have been misdiagnosed with shaving TMJ problems and have undergone major surgical reconstruction of the joint without experiencing any relief of their pain. Most “TMJ headaches” are often muscle pain (called myofascial pain syndrome), migraine, or chronic daily headache.

TMJ connects the mandible to the skull, is susceptible to many of the conditions that affect other joints in the body, including ankylosis, arthritis, trauma, dislocations, developmental anomalies, and neoplasia.

Temporomandibular joint disorder (TMJD, TMJ or TMD), or TMJ syndrome is a broad term for acute or chronic inflammation of the temporomandibular joint. TMJ can result in significant pain and impairment.

Patients with TMJ Disorders have a variety of symptoms, including earaches, headaches, noise in the ears, and limited functioning of the mouth. They may also complain of clicking or grating sounds in the jaw and feel pain in the area. Once accurately diagnosed, conservative treatment methods are often the most effective for long term pain relief.

Below is some basic anatomy and common symptoms associated with TMD (Temporomandibular Disorders, commonly called “TMJ”)

  • Ear Pain
  • Jaw Pain
  • Cheek Pain
  • Jaw Popping
  • Jaw Dislocation
  • Noise in the Ears
  • Headaches or Face Pain

For more information on TMJ and/or to schedule an evaluation, please contact us.