Temporomandibular Joint (TMJ)

Our body has two jaws, one upper (maxillary) and one lower (mandible). Our upper jaw is fixed and rigid. However, our lower jaw is more like a "swing." This is what allows you to move your lower jaw. The mandible is connected to our skull by two joints (temporomandibular joint) and a group of muscles. Disorders of the jaw are classified under temporomandibular joint disorder or TMD. If left untreated, TMD can be very painful and lead to chronic issues (headaches, ear pain, hearing loss, dizziness and limited movement). In this section, we will learn more about our TMJ, treatments available and prognosis.