The temporomandibular joint (TMJ) connects the lower jawbone to the skull, enabling functions like chewing and speaking. TMJ disorders (TMD) encompass various conditions affecting this joint and associated muscles, including intra-articular issues like cartilage displacement and degenerative bone conditions, as well as muscular disorders such as pain and spasms.

TMD can result from factors like excessive joint loading, genetics, and systemic conditions like arthritis. Diagnosis requires a thorough examination by a trained surgeon to differentiate TMD from other conditions with similar symptoms. Symptoms indicating potential TMD include jaw pain, clicking or popping sounds, teeth grinding, muscle spasms, headaches, and limited jaw movement.

Treatment aims to alleviate pain, improve jaw function, and enhance quality of life, ranging from conservative measures to surgical intervention for severe cases that do not respond to nonsurgical options.