“TMD” and “TMJ” are two acronyms often used interchangeably. In actuality, they refer to different — though related — terms. Let’s figure out what each means.
The temporomandibular joint (TMJ) is a hinge-like joint that connects your lower jaw to your skull. You have a pair of these joints. They can be found on either side of your head in front of your ears.
Temporomandibular joint disorder (TMD), sometimes also referred to as TMJD, is a group of conditions that happen when your TMJ becomes inflamed or painful.
Sometimes, people might call this disorder “TMJ” because it relates to the TMJ joint. But because this creates confusion, it’s best to separate these two terms and refer to the health condition as “TMD” or “TMJD.”
Your TMJ is shaped like a sliding hinge that allows your jaw to open and close and move from side to side.
Several mechanisms work together to help your TMJ function smoothly and without pain.
First, the parts of your bones that form the joint are covered with cartilage, a flexible connective tissue. Second, these bones are separated by a shock-absorbing disc also made of cartilage. Third, the joint is filled with a thick, lubricating liquid called synovial fluid.
With the help of many muscles in your face and head, TMJ makes it possible for you to:
- chew
- suck
- swallow
- speak
- change your facial expression
- breathe
Because your TMJ is so complex, there can be many ways it can be damaged. Damage to the TMJ that causes pain, discomfort, or inflammation results in TMD.
TMD can affect one or both sides of your face. Symptoms can be temporary or last years. The condition may be common in women — according to a
According to the National Institutes of Health, the symptoms of TMD may include:
- pain in your jaw, face, neck, shoulder, or back
- stiffness in the muscles of the jaw
- limited movement or locking of the jaw
- clicking or popping in the TMJ
- changes in how your upper and lower teeth fit together
- headaches
- earaches or ringing in the ears (tinnitus)
According to
- overuse of your chewing muscles, which can happen if you:
- often chew gum for a long time
- bite your nails or pens
- grind or clench your teeth
- misaligned bite (for example, underbite or overbite)
- anxiety and stress
- damage to your lower jawbone from injury or dental issues
- wear and tear on the cartilage, for instance, due to arthritis
- damage to the disc inside your TMJ
- structural jaw differences present at birth
The causes of TMD are often unclear.
Seek medical attention if you have any of the symptoms of TMD, especially if you:
- have persistent pain
- have discomfort
- have inflammation in your jaw
- cannot open or close your jaw completely
Dentists most often diagnose and treat TMD, but your primary care professional will be able to help you as well.
Treatment of TMD varies based on the following factors:
- the specific cause of your TMD
- your age
- your general health
- how long you’ve been living with your TMD symptoms
- your opinion and preferences
Treatment of TMD may include:
- self-care practices, such as:
- medications, such as:
- mouth guards to prevent teeth grinding or clenching
- physical therapy
- Botox injections
- cannabidiol (CBD)
- surgery
Although the terms “TMJ” and “TMD” are often confused, they refer to different — though related — things.
“TMJ” refers to the temporomandibular joint, a hinge-like joint that connects your lower jaw to your skull. “TMD” is a condition that affects the TMJ, and it stands for temporomandibular joint disorder.
TMD occurs when there’s damage to your TMJ. It often causes severe, persistent pain, discomfort, and inflammation.
Make sure to speak with your dentist or primary care professional if you suspect you have TMD. Many treatment options can help you find relief from this condition.