temporomandibular joint (TMJ)

The temporomandibular joint (TMJ) connects your jawbone to your skull, allowing you to open, close, and move your mouth for eating, talking, and yawning. It’s a complex joint with bones, cartilage, muscles, and a small disc that helps smooth movement. When this joint isn’t working properly—due to injury, misalignment, or stress—it can cause pain, clicking, locking, or difficulty moving the jaw. TMJ disorders can affect anyone and may be managed with treatments like physical therapy, medication, or dental adjustments. Proper function of the TMJ is essential for normal jaw and mouth movements.