Anatomy and conditions
TMJ
Also called temporomandibular joint, jaw joint, TMD
The joint that connects the lower jaw to the skull; problems with it are called TMJ disorders.
The temporomandibular joints sit on each side of the head and let the jaw open, close and move side to side. Problems with the joint or nearby muscles can cause jaw pain, clicking, headaches or trouble opening wide. Causes can include arthritis, injury, bite problems, stress or clenching. Dentists often start with simple measures such as a night guard. Insurance coverage for this care varies, and some plans treat it as a medical matter.
Example at the front desk
Her jaw clicks and hurts when she chews, so I booked a TMJ evaluation with the dentist.