ABC Medical Center > Diseases > Temporomandibular Joint Disorders

What is temporomandibular joint disorders?

26 January 2026

This refers to painful episodes in the jaw joint and in the muscle tissue that allows it to move, acting as the connection between the jaw and the skull.

Temporomandibular Joint Disorders (TMJ disorders) can have diverse origins. Although the cause is often difficult to identify, it has been determined to be related to genetic issues, arthritic problems, bruxism (teeth grinding), and injuries.

Potential Risks for Developing a Temporomandibular Disorder include:

  • Arthritis
  • Osteoarthritis
  • Jaw injuries
  • Bruxism (teeth grinding/clenching)
  • Connective tissue diseases

TMJ disorders are usually limited in duration and can be managed with non-surgical treatments. However, when non-surgical options do not yield good results, surgery is the indicated option.

Symptoms: Temporomandibular Joint

  • Discomfort or pain when touching the jaw.
  • Painful episodes on one or both sides of the jaw.
  • Sore ear.
  • Pain during chewing.
  • Sore face.
  • Locked jaw.
  • Clicking or popping sound when opening the mouth or chewing.

Diagnosis and Treatment: Temporomandibular Joint

The doctor will analyze your symptoms and clinical history, in addition to performing a thorough examination of your jaw, its range of motion, and its sensitivity.

You will also undergo a series of tests, including:

  • X-rays
  • Computed Tomography (CT) scan
  • Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI)
  • Temporomandibular Arthroscopy

The course of treatment will depend on the intensity of the symptoms and the direct cause of the condition, but, when necessary, it usually includes:

  • Anti-inflammatories
  • Analgesics (Pain relievers)
  • Muscle relaxants
  • Antidepressants
  • Mouth guard/splint
  • Physical therapy
  • Psychological therapy
  • Surgery

At the Center for Orthopedics and Traumatology, we seek to improve the lives of patients restricted or immobilized by musculoskeletal disorders or injuries. We specialize in the care of the musculoskeletal system by integrating the latest medical, biological, and technological advances, in strict adherence to the highest international standards of patient care.

Related centers and departments Temporomandibular Joint Disorders

Orthopedics and Traumatology Center
High Specialty Surgery Center
Radiology and Molecular Imaging
Clinical Laboratory

Sources:

  • topdoctors.es
  • cun.es
  • middlesexhealth.org
  • msdmanuals.com
  • medlineplus.gov
  • intramed.net
  • medigraphic.com
  • Hernández-Reyes B, Lazo-Nodarse R, Bravo-Cano O, et al. Trastornos temporomandibulares en el sistema estomatognático del paciente adulto mayor. AMC. 2020;24(4):491-502.
  • Infante AR, García DC, Llano MM, et al. Variaciones del tercio inferior de la cara, disturbios temporomandibulares y necesidades asistenciales. Rev Ciencias Médicas. 2019;23(6):1000-1008.
  • Guerra GK, García CMC. Células madre como tratamiento de los trastornos de la articulación témporomandibular. 16 de abril. 2018;57(269):211-220.
  • González RCR, González SL, Carballido PDR, et al. Efectividad de la ozonoterapia para disminuir el dolor en los pacientes con trastornos temporomandibulares. Acta Med Cent. 2018;12(2):156-161.

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