TMJ stands for temporomandibular joint. This is the joint connecting the lower jaw to the upper jaw. This joint is directly in front of the external ear canal. Some of the nerves involved with the ear are very close to this joint area. There are many names like TMD, TMJD, MFP, OFP, and MPD associated with this joint problem. These are not necessarily different problems but different terminology that has been coined by different researchers at a particular moment in time of their perception of what TMJ problems are. As a result, numerous mis-conceptions were created and lead to widely different treatment methods.
The National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research (NIDCR) department
of the National Institutes of Health (NIH) indicates that over 10 million
people in the United States suffer from TMJ problems at any given time.
Both men and women experience TMJ problems; however, 90 percent of those
seeking treatment are women in their childbearing years. According to
AACP, American Academy of Craniofacial Pain, an estimated 75% of the U.S.
population has experienced one or more signs or symptoms of TMJ problems,
so it is not a rare disorder for males and females.
This information is FYI only. It is not intended to provide treatment or recommend treatment by any means or methods. Any health problems need careful diagnosis by your attending doctors.