The temporomandibular joints (TMJs) are the two joints responsible for connecting the lower jaw to the rest of the skull. When functioning properly they allow the jaw to move and perform all of the tasks that are typically necessary for survival, such as eating and talking. TMJ disorders, also known as TMDs, are a group of conditions affecting the TMJs and/or associated muscles. Pain and dysfunction are often the result of the various TMJ disorders. In the past, surgery was used to attempt to correct many TMJ disorders. However, most surgical procedures proved to be unsuccessful and some even worsened pain and dysfunction. Substantial amounts of research support the non-surgical treatment of TMJ disorders. Your orofacial pain specialist will work with you to develop a personalized treatment plan aimed at reducing pain and restoring function. Common signs and symptoms of TMJ disorders can be found below.