TMJ, or temporomandibular joint, is where a person’s lower jawbone meets the skull.  This joint allows a person to talk, chew, and yawn.  A TMJ injury can occur in an auto accident if it involves a blow or impact to the head or jaw area.

According to the Mayo Clinic, an auto accident victim that suffers a TMJ injury may have any of the following symptoms:

• Pain or tenderness in the jaw,
• Aching pain in and around one’s ear,
• Difficulty or pain with chewing,
• Facial pain,
• The TMJ locks, making it difficult to open or close one’s mouth,
• Limitation of movement,
• Clicking (when associated with pain or limited movement),
• An uneven bite.

A TMJ injury can be diagnosed either from your doctor or dentist.  Generally, they will order diagnostic imaging tests such as X-rays, CT scans, or MRI’s.

There are various forms of treatment for TMJ that a patient may be prescribed.  These include:

• Medications, such as painkillers, antidepressants, muscle relaxants, and steroid injections.
• Therapy involving a bite guard and/or cognitive behavioral therapy.
• Corrective dental treatment or, possibly, repair or replacement surgery.