I went to my doctor and he said i have tmj and that i should see a specialist. so my question is, for tmj do you go to a dentist or an orthodontist?

A few choices: Oral surgeons and orthodontists are dental specialists, and both can handle your problem and/or work together to find a solution. General dentists who have training in dealing with TMJ can also treat certain aspects of the dysfunction. If your jaw is locking as you described, see an oral surgeon first.

See OFP specialist: Orofacial Pain specialist understands the causes, effects and treatments. Without proper diagnosis and care, there could be serious lifelong consequences. See OFP specialist ASAP.

No TMJ specialty: There is no ADA recognized specialty in TMJ . There are dentists who focus on TMJ but they can not call themselves a specialist. These dentists are usually general practitioners who have had extra training. Sometimes specialists such as prosthodontists or oral surgeons may focus on TMJ as well. Ask your dentist if this an area that they treat or get a referral from them if they fi not.