TMJ most commonly refers to pain and problems of the jaw due to a retruded or damaged condyle (the “ball” type part of the jaw joint). This causes pressure to the back part of the joint, compressing many nerves and blood vessels. TMJ therapy, or Temporal Mandibular Joint Dysfunction, effects many individuals.
Bite problems, hereditary factors, arthritis, and even some orthodontic techniques can all be contributing factors which may add to the problem. Headaches (more than 2 per week) and persistent pain in the jaw area or sides of the face all deserve an exam of the TMJ to either confirm or eliminate the joint as the origin of the pain.
Also, like other medical and dental fields, newer, simpler, and more effective techniques for TMJ treatment, have been a God-send to many.
