Understanding the most complex joint in your body — and what happens when it stops working properly.
The temporomandibular joint (TMJ) is the hinged connection between your lower jaw (mandible) and the temporal bone of your skull. It is one of the most frequently used joints in the body — involved in every bite, word, and yawn. Unlike most joints, the TMJ can move in multiple planes simultaneously: opening, closing, sliding forward, backward, and side to side.
The joint is cushioned by an articular disc — a small fibrocartilage structure that acts as a shock absorber between the condyle (the ball of the lower jaw) and the fossa (the socket in the temporal bone). When this disc becomes displaced, worn, or perforated, it generates the clicking, popping, and locking that characterize TMJ dysfunction.
At I Smile Clinic, Dr. Anu provides specialist-level evaluation of the TMJ — including clinical provocation testing, range-of-motion analysis, and CBCT imaging when indicated. Our goal is always accurate diagnosis first, because the right treatment cannot be chosen without it.
Book a consultation with our specialists and receive a personalized treatment plan.
The articular disc shifts out of its normal position — causing clicking on opening or, in more advanced cases, locking the jaw open or closed.
Gradual loss of bone from the condyle — more common in young women — alters the bite and jaw profile over time if untreated.
Both osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis can affect the TMJ, causing progressive joint degeneration and pain.
The condyle slips fully out of the socket — leaving the jaw open and unable to close without manual or clinical reduction.
Muscle spasm and trigger points in the masticatory muscles mimic joint pain and are the most common source of TMJ-area discomfort.
Direct trauma to the jaw — from accidents, sports injury, or surgical procedures — can alter joint mechanics and trigger chronic dysfunction.
A structured pain history covering onset, location, character, aggravating factors, prior treatments, and systemic health context.
Range of motion measurement, provocation testing, palpation of the joint and muscles, and assessment of clicking, crepitation, or locking.
CBCT provides 3D views of the bony architecture of the joint. MRI referral is arranged when soft-tissue disc assessment is required.
A clear diagnosis is communicated with a written treatment plan — conservative options first, surgical only when truly indicated.
Splint therapy, injections, or physical therapy are initiated and tracked. Most patients see meaningful improvement within 6–8 weeks.
TMJ pain is one of the most misdiagnosed conditions in medicine. Dr. Anu's specialist training in orofacial pain means you get an accurate diagnosis and a targeted treatment plan.
Accurate classification of your specific TMJ disorder is the foundation of effective treatment. Dr. Anu uses evidence-based diagnostic criteria (DC/TMD) to classify and target your condition precisely.
Specialized treatment for TMJ disorders, facial pain, and myofascial pain. We use advanced diagnostic techniques to identify the root cause and provide targeted relief.
Our specialists will evaluate your case and design a treatment plan built around your goals.
