Anti-Inflammatory - drug that reduces swelling. In the case of TMJ, it reduces swelling in the jaw joint directly in front of the ear, called the Temporomandibular Joint.
Arthroscopy - a technique first used to treat knee damage and now used with many TMJ patients. In this procedure, an arthroscope (thin tube) is inserted into the jaw to wash out debris, reposition the disk, or remove scar tissue.
Bite Plate - an appliance used to change the way the teeth fit together, particularly used at night, to protect a person who grinds their teeth, so they don't continue to damage their teeth and jaw.
Bruxism - an unconscious and sometimes stress-related habit of grinding or gritting the teeth during the night, or during stressful times. Can wear down the teeth.
Equilibration - grinding the tooth surface to correct bite.
Malocclusion - the misalignment of the upper and lower teeth when the jaw is closed and their surfaces come in contact.
Occlusion - the relationship between the upper and lower teeth when the jaw is closed and their surfaces come in contact.
Occlusal Guard - mouth splint often used in treating TMJ.
Occlusal Orthotic Devices - a mouth splint used to realign the teeth and reposition the jaw into a more functional position.
Orthodontist - a dental specialist who makes the teeth and jaw fit together in a comfortable and functional way.
Temporalis Muscle- a large facial muscle located near the temple, which, in a TMJ patient, is frequently inflamed or swollen, causing painful headaches and other pain symptoms.
Temporomandibular Joint - the small joint that acts as a hinge between the lower jaw bone (mandible) and temporal jaw. When this joint is not properly aligned, it can create swelling, inflammation, and pain in surrounding muscles and other facial tissue.
"TMJ" or "TMD" - When people say they have "TMJ" or "TMD" they are referring to a condition where the joint connecting their lower (mandible) jaw bone and upper (temporal) jaw is not fitting together and functioning properly, due to either damage, deterioration or trauma to the jaw itself, to the joint, or to the muscle tissue which connects them. The condition frequently causes headache, jaw popping and discomfort, ear ringing, neck ache, facial pain, and other symptoms.
Whiplash - Injury to the muscles, ligaments, or nerves of the neck, face or jaw.
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