The TMJ’s Role in Chewing
The TMJ, or temporomandibular joint, allows your jaw to move up and down and side to side during chewing. This joint acts as a hinge and sliding mechanism, enabling smooth movements for grinding and crushing food. Chewing involves coordination between the TMJ and surrounding muscles, including the masseter, temporalis, and pterygoid muscles. As you chew, the TMJ stabilizes the jaw while the muscles contract and relax in a rhythmic pattern. This intricate process ensures that food is broken down effectively without causing undue strain on the joint. Any disruption in this harmony can lead to TMJ disorders, causing pain and discomfort during chewing.