The TMJ is situated in front of the ear and is part of the lower jaw articulating into the glenoid fossa.

If you have some of the following symptoms, it may be advisable to check your TMJ:

1. Clicking of the joint
2. Inability to open your mouth wide
3. Pain in the joint and surrounded face
4. Severe persistent headaches
5. Pain behind the ear
6. Earache and clogginess
7. Sleep disorders
8. Depression which does not react to medication
9. Chronic tiredness
10. Clenching of the teeth especially at night
11. Heaviness in the chest and heart palpitations not due to heart problems
12. Excessive sweat problem.

If you have lost teeth or have a very narrow upper arch this may contribute to the mal position of the lower jaw, placing pressure and compression on the TMJ.
Treating a TMJ problem is a lengthy procedure, to help healing, repositioning of the lower jaw and decompressing the condyle.
Treatment may take up to 3 years and may include procedures like:

1. TMJ Splint on the lower jaw;
2. Developing the upper jaw with Orthopaedic appliances; and
3. Full Orthodontic treatment.

To examine your problem, a series of x-rays are taken and an hour appointment is needed to explain the treatment.