Have you ever experienced a jaw click, discomfort while chewing or frequent headaches? If yes, you might be experiencing the signs of TMJ disorders. Although often overlooked, TMJ disorders are increasingly prevalent, but the bright side is that they’re manageable. Today, we will examine some effective approaches for diagnosing TMJ disorders.
What is TMJ?
TMJ, or the temporomandibular joint, functions as the hinge between your jawbone and skull. Any issues affecting this complex system of muscles, ligaments, discs and bones can lead to a TMJ disorder.
Symptoms that may warrant a TMJ diagnosis
Diagnosing TMJ disorders begins with recognizing the various symptoms. Some commonly reported ones include:
- Jaw pain or tenderness
- Difficulty or discomfort while chewing
- Clicking sound or grating sensation when opening or closing the mouth
- Aching facial pain
Diagnosis Procedures
Physical Examination
Most often, a thorough physical examination is the first step. Your dentist, Dr. Concepcion Sanchez-Garcia or Dr. Raul Garcia, will feel and listen to your jaw when you open and close your mouth, observe the range of motion in your jaw, and press on areas around your jaw to identify any discomfort or pain.
Imaging Tests
X-rays
If more information is needed, your dentist might take X-rays of your jaw to get a detailed image of your temporomandibular joint.
CT Scan
Computed tomography (CT) provides more detail than a standard x-ray. This machine can show bony details and reveal any possible degenerative changes in the joint.
Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI)
An MRI is used in TMJ disorder diagnosis to visualize not only the bones but also the soft tissues. Using this test, your dentist can clearly see if there’s a problem with the position of the disk or the surrounding soft tissue.
Additional tests
In some instances, your dentist might find it necessary to perform additional tests. For example, a diagnostic arthroscopy (a small flexible tube containing a lens and light) can be inserted into the joint space to help examine problematic areas in detail.
TMJ Disorders Management
If a TMJ disorder diagnosis is confirmed, treatment options can be explored. These could range from conservative remedies such as oral devices and physiotherapy to more complex solutions like dental procedures and surgical interventions.
TMJ disorders can be challenging to diagnose due to their varied symptoms that mimic those of other conditions. , getting a correct diagnosis is the first step towards effective management. Armed with the right knowledge and professional help from clinics like Miami Designer Smiles, you can take control of your TMJ symptoms and enhance your quality of life.