Condylar degeneration is a temporomandibular joint disorder in which one or both condyle bones break down. This can impact jaw movements cause pain, result in facial deformities, and decrease airway space. Condyles are the top of the lower jaw that fit into the joint socket in the base of the skull. The joint works similarly to a ball and socket. With the condyle acting at the ball and the base of the skull working as the socket, like other orthopedic joints, the condyle can undergo arthritic changes. During these changes, the joint can become painful and bike changes may occur. Condylar degeneration typically occurs when the ligaments attaching the disc to the condyle rupture or tear. These ligaments usually tear as a result of an injury to the jaw joints, such as a compression injury, a stretch injury, or whiplash. Common symptoms include a misaligned jaw resulting in an open bite sensitive or loose teeth cracked molars, jaw pain extending through the face and a neck, and a crunching sound when moving the jaw. If your doctor suspects condylar degeneration, it will perform a thorough physical examination of the jaw joints. Oftentimes, diagnostic imaging with MRI and CT scans are necessary to determine appropriate treatment options. While structural changes to the jaw joints are difficult to reverse, there are several treatment options that can help in decreasing pain and restoring an even bite. A bite appliance can redistribute bite forces and help promote adaptation of injured jaw joints. In cases where the injury is too advanced to adapt, surgical procedures can be effective in helping to reduce pain and restore a balanced bite. It's important to work closely with your doctor to create a treatment plan that best meets your unique needs based on the condition of your jaw joints.