The Temporomandibular Joint, the jaw joint, is unique. It is designed entirely differently than any other joint in the human body. Because of it’s bilateral uniqueness, there are many things that can go wrong with the joint. These include, but are not limited to, derangement (parts out of position or malfunctioning), displaced disk, arthritis, foreign bodies, ligament tears, bursitis, and many other conditions. Malocclusion may cause or contribute to Myo-Facial Pain Dysfunction Syndrome or Temporomandibular Joint Derangement. There are many treatment modalities, ranging from exercises, temperature change therapy, muscle relaxants, biofeedback, occlusal orthotic (night guard), arthroscopic surgery, joint replacement surgery, and others. Sometimes multidisciplinary treatment is required.
