Living with Congenital temporomandibular joint ankylosis
A rare jaw condition present from birth in which the jaw joint is stiff and the mouth opens very little.
Understanding Congenital temporomandibular joint ankylosis
The opening can range from a few millimeters to a few centimeters. People may have facial differences, such as a jaw and chin that shift to one side, an uneven lower face, and a small jaw, along with a bad bite. They typically have feeding and breathing difficulties. Developmental delay, low muscle tone, and seizures have also been reported.
Signs & symptoms
GARD doesn't list specific symptoms for this condition yet. Its summary mentions these:
- Limited mouth opening
- Feeding difficulties
- Breathing difficulties
- Small or shifted jaw (micrognathia)
- Bad bite (dental malocclusion)
- Uneven lower face
Not everyone has every symptom. GARD's list comes from the Human Phenotype Ontology.
Diagnosis
- 1Talk with your doctor
Share the symptoms you've noticed, when they started and your family health history. Notes and photos can help.
- 2See a specialist
Your doctor may refer you to a specialist who knows rare conditions.
- 3Ask which tests can help
Your care team will decide which exams and tests can confirm the diagnosis.
Care & treatment
- Care team
- A doctor familiar with rare conditions, plus specialists as needed
- Expert care
- Ask about multidisciplinary care centers for rare conditions
- Treatment
- GARD doesn't list specific treatments for this condition. Your care team will tailor care to your symptoms.
- Research
- Clinical trials and observational studies may be options. See the research section below.
General information, not medical advice. Your care team makes the decisions.
Everyday life
Living with a rare condition is easier with support.
- Connect with TMJ Association, Ltd.
- Keep notes on symptoms, changes and questions for appointments
- Ask about patient registries that help research
- Look into financial aid and travel resources for care visits
Quick facts
GARD doesn't describe a cause for this condition yet.
Also known as: congenital ankylosis of temporomandibular joint; congenital trismus
Patient organizations
- TMJ Association, Ltd.Congenital temporomandibular joint ankylosis · United States
You are more than your diagnosis
Perspectives from people navigating life with Congenital temporomandibular joint ankylosis.
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