The Temperomandibular Joint (T.M.J.) is the medical name given to the jaw joint. It is made up of the lower jaw which articulates against a disc in a cup shaped depression of the skull by the ear. If the lower jaw is displaced it can cause the disc to come away from it's correct position and dislocate, causing a clicking or grating noise when the mouth opens.

When the T.M.J. dislocates it can cause the symptoms of headaches, migraines, neck ache, tinnitus, fatigue and pain to name but a few. Patients will often grind their teeth at night, have difficulty opening wide, click or grate in the T.M.J. when opening and have some pain in the joint area itself in front of the ear.

The diagnosis is crucial in understanding and treating the problem and will involve muscle testing, ranges of motion, X-rays and possible Magnetic Resonance Imaging (M.R.I.).

Treatment can involve wearing splints and braces on the teeth to realign the jaw into it's correct position. In the majority of cases this eliminates all of the symptoms especially the headaches and migraines.

We have an excellent booklet on this subject if you ask one of our receptionists. You may also find our special interest group, The British Society for the Study of Craniomandibular Disorders (BSSCMD), helpful.

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