Scientific Definition & Classification of TMJ
Temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorder (TMD) is one of the most misunderstood human afflictions. It is confused with other illnesses and it is both a cause and a result of other illnesses. It is too often ignored by doctors who are not familiar with this enigma and by patients who slough off treatment because they don’t realize the seriousness of it.
People with TMD may experience these symptoms:
- pain in or around the ear
- headaches and neck aches
- tenderness of the jaw or jaw muscles
- jaw pain or soreness that is more prevalent in the morning or late afternoon
- jaw pain when chewing, biting or yawning
- difficulty opening and closing the mouth
- clicking or popping noises when opening the mouth
- sensitive teeth when no other dental problems can be found
Pain and compromised movement of the jaw joint and the surrounding muscles.
TMD affects more than twice as many women (particularly those of childbearing age) as men and is the most common non-dental related chronic facial pain.
About 20% to 30% of the adult population are affected to some degree. Usually people affected by TMD are between 20 and 40 years of age, and it is more common in females than males. TMD is the second most frequent cause of orofacial pain after dental pain.
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