Hannibal Cosmetic Dentist | Dr. Janes

The temporomandibular joints (TMJ) of the jaw are unique in that both are required to perform their actions simultaneously. Not only are the muscles of the jaw some of the strongest and most tenacious in your body, the design of the jaw gives it tremendous leverage and power. The actions of chewing and even speaking make the TMJ the most used joint in the body.

At your initial consultation, St. Louis neuromuscular dentist Dr. Charles Janes will be happy to answer all of your questions about TMJ disorders, also known as temporomandibular joint disorder (TMD). For now, the following questions and answers should help you gain a better understanding of what the disorder entails.

What is the TMJ?

The temporomandibular joint (TMJ) is where the lower jaw or mandible is connected to the skull. This junction is one of the most complex joints in the human body. Muscles, tendons, blood vessels and nerves all converge at the TMJ, on both sides of the head, just in front of the ears.

Because of the complexity of the joint and the number of physical connections made, the TMJ is subject to a number of problems or disorders. If one side of the jaw is damaged or gets misaligned, it can cause a wide variety of problems. Learn about the causes of TMJ.

What are Some Signs and Symptoms of TMJ problems?

Although many of these signs and symptoms may also point to something more serious, one or more may be present with TMD:

• Headaches
• Jaw pain
• Clicking jaws
• Tinnitus
• Limited range of motion
• Locking jaws

Get answers to more of your questions about TMJ.

In order to rule out problems that are more serious and to address the underlying cause of your TMD, please contact our St. Louis neuromuscular dentistry office today to schedule your initial consultation. Dr. Charles Janes serves patients in the St. Louis and Hannibal Missouri and Quincy, Illinois areas.