What is TMJ? When people mention “TMJ,” they are often referring to the temporomandibular joint itself, but more commonly, they mean temporomandibular disorders (TMD). TMD encompasses issues not only with the joint but also with the surrounding muscles. The TMJ is the most frequently used joint in the body, located just in front of each ear where the skull and jaw connect. Each side of the jaw has a small, shock-absorbing disk made of cartilage that separates the skull from the lower jaw. Individuals have two TMJs—one on each side—both of which can be affected by disorders.
TMJ
