The temporomandibular joint is located in front of the ear and connects the base of the skull with the lower jaw enabling the movement of the jaw and the functions of chewing and speech.

Αποτελείται από οστά, μύες και τους ενδιάμεσους χόνδρους και οποιαδήποτε δυσλειτουργία σε αυτά μπορεί να καταλήξει σε πάθηση της ΚΦΓΔ με ποικίλη συμπτωματολογία.

Patients usually complain about pain, discomfort around the joints and ear, noises (clicking) when opening and closing the mouth as well as frequent headaches.

Many factors have been implicated for TMJ disorder, however stress seems to be the most common cause for its onset.

Physical and emotional stress is linked with conscious and unconscious (during sleep) teeth grinding and clenching, which in turn add strain to the temporomandibular joint. If stress-induced TMJ disorder is confirmed after thorough clinical examination, the patient is advised to wear a custom-made dental mouthguard during the night, which helps in relieving his symptoms. Painkillers, muscle relaxants and anti-inflammatory drugs may also be prescribed.