The temporomandibular joint or TMJ is a hinge-like joint that connects your jawbone to your skull on both sides of your face. It facilitates essential movements such as speaking, chewing, and yawning. This intricate joint consists of muscles, bones, nerves, and a cushioning cartilage disc for smooth operation.
However, when problems arise within this complex system, it can lead to a group of conditions collectively known as temporomandibular disorders (TMD). TMD can cause pain and dysfunction in the jaw joint and associated muscles, often stemming from various factors such as injury, arthritis, teeth grinding, or everyday wear and tear.