Many people ask do I Have TMJ? or they ask what is the difference between TMJ and TMD? Let me try to explain what these terms are and how they are used.
TMJ stands for Temporomandibular Joint. It is the jaw joint located just in front of the ear. The temporal bone is located on the side of the head and the mandible is the lower jaw bone. Where they meet is the temporomandibular joint (TMJ).
TMD stands for temporomandibular disorder. This term is more inclusive than TMJ, it refers to problems in the joint as well as problems of the muscles which are attached to the joint.
Most people have a combination of muscle and joint problems (TMD). However, the terms TMD and TMJ are many times used as catch phrases to include a variety of facial pain disorders.
