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Dentistry vocabulary · Teeth and Oral Anatomy

TMJ

Meaning in dentistry, with examples

abbreviationCommon term

In dentistry, TMJ means: Short for temporomandibular joint: the joint just in front of each ear that connects the lower jaw to the skull and lets the mouth open, close and move sideways.

In Turkish: TME, temporomandibular eklem, çene eklemi

How it is used

Dentists examine the TMJ for clicking, pain and limited opening. Problems with the joint and jaw muscles are called temporomandibular disorders (TMD), although patients in the US often say 'I have TMJ'.

Example sentences

  1. She has clicking in the left TMJ when she opens wide.

  2. Palpate both TMJs and the chewing muscles.

Common collocations

  • TMJ pain
  • TMJ clicking
  • TMJ examination
  • TMJ disorder
  • mandibleThe lower jaw bone. It holds the lower teeth, moves at the jaw joints, and contains the canal of the nerve that supplies feeling to the lower teeth and lip.
  • bruxismThe habit of grinding or clenching the teeth, often during sleep and without the person knowing. It can wear teeth down and cause jaw pain and headaches.
  • occlusionThe way the upper and lower teeth fit together when the jaws close, and how they touch during chewing and other jaw movements.
  • maxillaThe upper jaw bone. It holds the upper teeth, forms most of the hard palate, and contains the maxillary sinuses above the back teeth.

More terms: Teeth and Oral Anatomy

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This page explains English vocabulary for learners. It is not medical advice.