There is a common misunderstanding when it comes to what TMJ is. The abbreviation “TMJ” stands for temporomandibular joint. Everyone is born with two jaw joints – one on each side. Disorders or diseases of TMJ are labeled under the TMD umbrella.
TMD stands for temporomandibular joint disorder.
The difference between the two is simply that TMJ refers to the joint itself, while TMD refers to disorders characterized by inflammation or misalignment of the TMJs, ligaments and facial muscles.