Muscles, joints, ligaments and tissues, all are involved for teeth to function properly. One of the most important joints involved in the movement of teeth is the temporomandibular joint – the complex hinge joining the lower jaw with the skull. The joint has a unique ability to glide forward making use of a series of muscles, ligaments, and fibrous tissues.
Any problem in this joint leads to the condition called temporomandibular Joint Disorder, or TMD. The problem causes the chewing system to not work properly giving rise to uncomfortable and potentially painful symptoms. Misalignment of the jaw, tooth clenching or grinding, arthritis, problem in the way teeth touch, and posture issues are some of the major reasons that can lead to TMD.
If suspected, the treatment involves a physical examination of the area and overall chewing system. After the examination and depending on the nature and severity of the issues causing it, the doctor is going to further plan the treatment.