TMJ / TMD refers to disorders involving the temporomandibular joint (TMJ)—the hinge-like joint connecting the jawbone (mandible) to the skull—and the surrounding muscles and tissues. TMD (temporomandibular disorders) is the broader term for a group of conditions causing pain and dysfunction in this area, while TMJ often specifically denotes the joint itself. Symptoms commonly include jaw pain or tenderness (especially around the joint, cheek, or ear), aching facial pain, clicking, popping, grating, or locking sensations when opening/closing the mouth, limited jaw movement or difficulty opening wide, chewing discomfort, headaches (often temple or ear-area), earaches or ringing in the ears (tinnitus) without ear infection, and sometimes neck/shoulder pain. Causes can include jaw injury or trauma, arthritis (osteoarthritis or rheumatoid), teeth grinding/clenching (bruxism), misaligned bite, stress-related muscle tension, connective tissue diseases, or habits like excessive gum chewing. It affects people of all ages but is more common in women aged 20–40, with symptoms ranging from mild and intermittent to chronic and debilitating.