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Temporomandibular (TM) Joint

Picture of the temporomandibular joint (TMJ)

Illustration copyright 2000 by Nucleus Communications, Inc. All rights reserved. http://www.nucleusinc.com

The temporomandibular (TM) joints join the skull and lower jawbone (mandible). These gliding "ball and socket" joints are located just in front of each ear, and they move when a person opens and closes his or her mouth.

The TM joints are stabilized by muscles that attach directly to the jawbone. They are separated by a disc made of cartilage, which keeps the two bones from rubbing together.

By Healthwise Staff
Primary Medical Reviewer Adam Husney, MD - Family Medicine
Specialist Medical Reviewer Arden Christen, DDS, MSD, MA, FACD - Dentistry
Last Revised January 11, 2012

Last Revised: January 11, 2012

Author: Healthwise Staff

Medical Review: Adam Husney, MD - Family Medicine & Arden Christen, DDS, MSD, MA, FACD - Dentistry

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