What is TMJ Disorder?

Temporomandibular Joint Disorder (TMJD/TMD) is a diagnosis that involves dysfunction within the jaw joints as well as the muscles and fascia that surround and support the jaw.

TMJ stands for tempomandibular joint. You have a TMJ on each side of your face. These joints connect your jaw to your skull, and are working every time you speak, chew, and swallow. They are the MOST used joints in your body, and the only joints that are required to work symmetrically. 

Symptoms of TMJD include

• Snapping and crackling in the jaw

• Clicking and popping in the jaw

• Episodes of the jaw locking or catching

Other common symptoms include

• Headaches

• Ear symptoms: pain, stuffiness and ringing

• Jaw pain

• Vertigo

• Neck and shoulder pain

• Facial tingling or pain

TMJD can vary significantly from person to person, which can make diagnosing and treating it challenging.

Root causes are varied, and include

• Sleep disordered breathing

• Mouth breathing

• Hypermobility

• Muscular imbalances

• Nervous system dysfunction

• Trauma or whiplash

• A nervous tic

TMJD can have far-reaching effects – especially the longer it goes undiagnosed and untreated. If you’re experiencing any of the symptoms listed above or you suspect you may have TMJD, start by scheduling a complimentary consultation.

Want to Learn More?

Sign up for Empowered: My once a week/ one minute email that teaches you how your body works.