TMJ/TMD
Diagnosing Temporomandibular Joint Disorders (TMD)
Diagnosing temporomandibular joint disorders (TMD) can be a difficult task at hand for a variety of reasons. With a less than clear understanding of the causes and exact symptoms affecting TMD and the surrounding muscles, healthcare professionals may be hesitant to diagnose TMD.
The Diagnosis
When conducting an examination of a patient experiencing pain in the TMJ region, a detailed health history will be taken looking for any injuries, traumas, procedures or conditions that may contribute to the symptoms. The TMJ will also be examined, along with the bones and muscles of the jaw, mouth, face, neck and head to note pain and tenderness, limited motion or locking of the jaw when opening, closing, or moving the jaw side-to-side.
There is no standard, widely accepted test used in the diagnosis of TMD, but there are several tests that might aide in the diagnostic process:
- X-rays of the face, joint and teeth
- Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)
- Computed tomography (CT)
While most cases of TMD cannot be cured, there are treatment options available to help prevent the worsening and pain. The underlying cause of TMD does not need to be known to provide quality care for a patient diagnosed with TMD.
Contact Dr. Amanda Juarez of Sweet Dreams Sleep Solutions for more information on TMD and what your options might be.