Temporomandibular joint (TMJ) syndrome

Alternative names:

myofacial pain dysfunction syndrome; TMJ

Definition:

A condition of facial pain in the joints of the lower jaw.

Causes, incidence, and risk factors:

Temporomandibular joints (TMJ) connect the lower jaw (mandible) to the skull. Problems arising in this area may cause various symptoms such as headaches, popping sounds in the jaw, and facial pain. The causes of problems are multiple and can include congenital anomalies, arthritis, fractures, dislocations, and tension-relieving habits such as jaw clenching or tooth grinding behaviors (bruxism), which may cause muscle spasms in the jaw and dental misalignment. Nevertheless, physical examination may be normal.