Temporomandibular joint (TMJ) syndrome is a disorder of the jaw muscles and nerves caused by injury or inflammation to the temporomandibular joint. The temporomandibular joint is the connection between the jawbone and the skull.

Causes

Factors that may increase the risk of developing TMJ disorders include:
Various types of arthritis, such as rheumatoid arthritis and osteoarthritis.
Jaw injury.
Long-term (chronic) grinding or clenching of teeth.
Certain connective tissue diseases that cause problems that may affect the temporomandibular joint.