Frequently Asked Questions - What is TMJ? How does it function?

TMJ is an abbreviation that refers to a specific part of the body known as the temporomandibular joint. "Temporo," meaning temple/head, and "mandible," meaning the lower jaw, refers to the joints that connect your lower jaw to your head or temples. When this joint malfunctions, the condition is known as TMD - or temporomandibular disorder.

The temporomandibular joints are the most complex joints in the entire human body. These ball-and-socket-like joints, located right in front of your ears, are capable of moving in three dimensions. Not only can they move up and down for yawning, and left and right for chewing, or forward and backward when you bite your lip but they can do all three simultaneously! The facial muscles that control the activity of your jaw are extremely complex. These muscles move more than your jaw and teeth, they also cause your lips, tongue, cheeks, throat, eyes, and ears to move.