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TMJ: Not Just for Adults
Temporomandibular Joint Syndrome
During your child's dental checkup, the child's dentist might check 
for signs of temporomandibular joint syndrome (TMJ). Although TMJ is typically thought of as an adult disorder, children can exhibit early symptoms.
TMJ: A Definition
"TMJ describes a variety of conditions that affect muscles and joints in the jaw that can cause chronic pain in the face," says Dr. Bruce Carter, chief of dental service at Texas Children's Hospital and clinical assistant professor of pediatrics at Baylor College of Medicine. "The earlier the problem is diagnosed and treated with orthodontics, the better." The joint affected is called the temporomandibular joint that slides and rotates just in front of the ear, consisting of the temporal bone (side and base of the skull) and the lower jaw. Normal functions for this joint include chewing, swallowing, speech and communication. TMJ syndrome may occur when the jaw twists during opening, closing or side-motion movements.
The Symptoms
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