TMJ Disease

Overview

Mayo Clinic specialists have significant experience treating disorders of the temporomandibular joint (TMJ) in adults and children. Mayo Clinic uses a multidisciplinary treatment approach. Oral and maxillofacial surgeons try to find the best treatment possible for every patient, often working with specialists from pain management, neurology and physical medicine.

Diagnosis

An evaluation begins with a thorough medical history to learn about symptoms and related medical conditions. A physical exam is performed to determine whether the problem is caused solely by the TMJ. This exam can include a complete oral, head, and neck exam (including testing the patient's bite and range of motion in the joints), a neurological exam (used more frequently for patients with severe or chronic pain), and basic X-rays, CT scans and magnetic resonance imaging, as needed.

Treatment Options

Treatment options include anti-inflammatory medications, minimally invasive "joint flushes," (arthrocentesis) and various types of TMJ surgery (arthroplasty). Read more about TMJ disease treatment options.

About TMJ Disease

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The temporomandibular joint (TMJ) is located just in front of each ear, where the lower jawbone (mandible) connects to the skull. This "ball and socket" joint allows the jaw to move up and down, from side to side, and in complex circular motions. The TMJ helps people eat, swallow and speak, in addition to supporting the jaw.

TMJ function can be affected by disease (infection, rheumatoid arthritis), injury, general wear and tear, and congenital abnormalities (people who are born with a deformed TMJ). All these events can lead to potentially significant pain and difficulty in opening and closing the jaw.

Both the "ball" (condyle, or end of the jawbone) and the "socket" (articular fossa, formed by the surrounding temporal bone) can be affected. The small piece of cartilage that acts as padding between these bones (the disk) can also become damaged or displaced due to constant use or other conditions. When the TMJ components become damaged, causing the once smooth and lubricated joint to lose its flexibility and range of motion, this results in problems opening and closing the jaw, eating, speaking and other facial movements. Symptoms can include moderate to severe pain, and popping or grinding noises.

Read more at
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