The temporomandibular joint is the joint of the jaw, between the temporal bone and the mandible (lower jaw). One of the parts of the temporomandibular joint is the articular disc. It is situated between the two bones and functions as an articular surface. When the disc is displaced, the most common disorder has occurred. In most cases, the disc is displaced anteriorly. The displacement might also be with (reducible) or without reduction (nonreducible). In disc displacement without reduction, the popping and clicking of the joint is usually not present.


The causes for disc displacement might differ. Visiting a dentist to check for malocclusion, bruxism, or other forms of teeth misalignment is recommended.

Meanwhile, taking pain relievers might be very helpful. Temporomandibular physical therapy might be of great help by relaxing the muscles surrounding the joint. In the end, if all the above mentioned methods do not help, surgery might be needed to put the disc in its place and to prevent repetitive disc displacements. Before the surgery, you might want to consult with the dentist as to which of the many types of surgery might be most beneficial for you.