The temporomandibular joint (TMJ) is the joint that makes it possible to chew. This joint allows your jaw to open and close, and allows jaw movement forward, backward, and sideways. The TMJ only works properly if the lower jaw and its movements are synchronized.

Temporomandibular Disorder (TMD) is a condition caused by strenuous physical activities, stressful situations, overuse of the muscles, and grinding of the teeth. TMD affects jaw muscles, thetemporomandibularjoint, and nerves where movements become out of synch. These habits wear out the jaw muscles and lead to headache or neck pain. It can also result in sensitive teeth, injured soft tissues, muscle soreness, jaw discomfort, and headaches. Other symptoms include difficulty opening and closing your mouth, and the jaw locking when talking, yawning or eating.

TMD is treatable. A nighttime mouth guard will help stop the patient teeth grinding. More severe cases can treated with physical therapy, ice and hot packs, and posture training. TMD is usually cyclical and may return when the patient experiences stress. Your dentist can recommend the right therapy for you.