The temporomandibular joint is the large joint that connects the lower jaw to the skull and allows it to move and function in talking, eating, opening and closing your mouth. It obviously gets used quite a bit and because of that, either the muscles that move the joint or the supporting structures of the joint may become irritated or uncomfortable.

As with dental restorations, it is generally better to keep TMJ treatment simple and conservative if possible. Simple treatments may involve moist heat, occlusal adjustments of the teeth, and/or a nightguard appliance to be worn while sleeping. Diagnosis of the joint to determine whether true damage has occurred is critical.