The temporomandibular joint (TMJ) is a complex structure that consists of a series of muscles, ligaments, discs, and bones that help with the movements of the jaw. It acts like a sliding hinge that connects the lower jaw bone to the skull. There is one joint on each side of the jaw, right at the front of the ear. When the jaw and the joints are properly aligned, actions like chewing, yawning, talking, and swallowing can take place without any difficulty. However, if there are problems with the joint or any of the associated structures like the muscles and ligaments, you may experience difficulty performing some of these simple but essential everyday actions.
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