What are TMJ Diseases/Disorders?
Temporomandibular joint diseases and disorders, commonly called “TMJ”, refer to a complex and poorly understood set of conditions that can cause pain in the area of the jaw joint and associated muscles and/or problems using the jaw. Both or just one of the temporomandibular joints may be affected. TMJ diseases and disorders can affect a persons ability to speak, eat, chew, swallow, and even breathe. A study conducted by The Lewin Group prepared for the Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality concluded that many TMJ patients have other health problems. These may include Fibromyalgia, sleep disorders, Irritable Bowel Syndrome, chemical sensitivity, Mitral Valve Prolapse, and Hypermobile Joints. The relationship between these conditions and TMJ diseases and disorders needs further research. Moreover, certain medical conditions such as Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome, Dystonia, Lyme Disease and Scleroderma also may have an effect on the TMJ. Researchers generally agree that TMJ diseases and diso
