Jaw Terminology 101. It’s easier than you think.
Scratch no further. Here’s your crash course.
TMJ
- This abbreviation is short for the term Temporo-Mandibular Joint.
- Simply stated, this is your jaw joint; the area where your lower jaw (mandibular) attaches to the skull at the temporal bone.
- You have two TMJ’s – one on each side although they work together in unison.
- Experiencing discomfort or pain in this area is commonly referred to as “TMJ” when in actuality, TMJ is just the name of the joint
TMD
- This abbreviation is short for the term Temporo-Mandibular Joint Disorder (or Dysfunction)
- TMD is an umbrella term used to describe various problems that are associated with your jaw joint
- Problems with the jaw, jaw joint, and surrounding facial muscles that control chewing and moving the jaw are what causes TMD.
TMJD
- This abbreviation is short for the term Temporo-Mandibular Joint Disorder or Dysfunction
- This term refers to a complex set of circumstances that can cause pain in the area of the jaw joint and associated muscles and/or problems using the jaw.